Emergency Department Diagnosis of Multiple Mycotic Aneurysms in an HIV-Positive Patient Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound

Abstract

We report the case of a transgender woman with HIV (CD4 349), shortness of breath, and chest pain, who was found to have multiple mycotic aortic aneurysms by point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS). This report highlights the utility of point-of-care ultrasonography in the diagnosis and management of this rare clinical entity. Multiple mycotic aortic aneurysms and purulent pericarditis are uncommon. They have high morbidity and mortality and are associated with immunocompromised states (e.g., HIV). Diagnosis of the mycotic aneurysm, and its precursor, infectious aortitis, can be challenging, and delays in care can lead to poor outcomes. Often, as described in this case report, making the diagnosis requires a high clinical suspicion, multiple imaging modalities, and laboratory studies.