A case of tuberculous aneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta

A case of a 55-year-old female with tuberculous false aneurysm of the descending aorta is reported. She was admitted to our hospital on February, 1989 with hemoptysis and lumbago. Active pulmonary tuberculosis, caries of the 1st and 2nd abdominal vertebrae, and abnormal left lower mediastinal tumor shadow were confirmed by roentgenogram. Aortography and computer tomography revealed a false aneurysm of the descending aorta. After anti-tuberculous chemotherapy, fist sized false aneurysm was resected and the punch out hole of the descending aorta, 8 mm in diameter was closed successfully using partial extracorporeal circulation. Histologic examination of the aneurysmal wall revealed granulomatous formation containing numerous giant cells. She is doing well, 7 months after surgery.