Bovine Aortic Arch, A High-Risk Variant

Abstract

The bovine aortic arch is a vascular variant related to an increased incidence of vascular and neurological complications. It should be ruled out in patients with vague neurological symptoms without a clear etiology. Our case is of a 72-year-old female patient who presented with a syncopal episode; the workup incidentally showed the aortic arch bovine variant with evidence of ischemic white matter disease more than expected for age. After reviewing the related literature, we suggest that this aortic variant is likely an independent risk factor for multiple vascular complications. A close follow-up is essential, and screening should be considered for symptomatic family members.

Case study: An unusual and fatal injury: stab wound of a bovine aortic arch anomaly

“…Although generally asymptomatic, the BAA is known to pose a high risk for vascular complications such as cerebrovascular events and other problems after endovascular procedures [3].…”