Brucella Infection Associated with Abdominal Aortic Rupture and Retroperitoneal Hematoma: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND

Involvement of large vessels by Brucella infection, particularly leading to abdominal aortic rupture, is exceptionally rare in clinical practice. However, it constitutes a life-threatening condition associated with high mortality rates. Early identification of the infectious etiology combined with timely surgical intervention is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 63-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department due to sudden-onset lower back pain. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) confirmed the diagnosis of abdominal aortic rupture accompanied by a massive retroperitoneal hematoma. Emergency endovascular aortic repair with a stent graft was performed to control the hemorrhage. Postoperatively, the patient continued to experience unexplained fever and fatigue. Routine infection and immunological screenings returned negative results. Subsequent continuous blood culture identified Brucella melitensis, leading to a definitive diagnosis of ruptured infectious aortic aneurysm caused by brucellosis. A standard anti-Brucella regimen (doxycycline combined with rifampin) was promptly initiated. The patient showed marked improvement in infectious symptoms and was subsequently discharged.

CONCLUSION

Brucella infection may be associated with abdominal aortic rupture, although the exact pathological mechanism remains uncertain. The rupture could be attributable to either an infectious aneurysm or aortitis with bacteremia. Clinicians should consider brucellosis in patients with unexplained aortic pathology, especially those from endemic areas. Prompt microbiological diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are essential.