Tubercular pericarditis with effusion and mycotic pseudoaneurysm of arch of aorta.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an uncommon cause of mycotic aneurysm. Studies have described tuberculous aneurysm of the entire aorta. Tuberculous pericarditis can cause life-threatening complications such as pseudoaneurysm in the aorta. Aneurysm of the aorta has been associated with disseminated TB, vertebral or mediastinal TB, and in patients who had a history of TB. The thoracic aorta is the most common site for tuberculous aneurysms due to its proximity to the lungs and mediastinum. Accurate diagnosis and quick intervention can be life-saving in these cases. We discuss here a rare case of pseudoaneurysm of the arch of aorta associated with pericardial TB and pericardial and pleural effusion.