mycotic aneurysm

Last reviewed 01/2018

A mycotic aneurysm is the result of embolisation of infected thrombotic material from an infected cardiac valve or other source. The most common site for lodgement is in branches of the middle cerebral artery where bacterial proliferation induces inflammation and diminishes the intergrity of the arterial wall resulting in rupture, with intracerebral and subarachnoid haemorrhage. Less frequently, cerebral abscess and suppurative meningitis result.