A case of contained ruptured aortitis due to Clostridium septicum infection in a patient with a colon malignancy

Abstract

We discuss a case of contained ruptured aortitis due to Clostridium septicum infection in a 71-year-old man, who had undergone a right hemicolectomy and cholecystectomy to treat an ascending colon carcinoma. Computed tomography identified a juxtarenal abdominal aneurysm with gas formation in the right psoas muscle. Emergency abdominal exploration revealed a ruptured aortitis. After in situ graft replacement of the abdominal aorta, Clostridium septicum was identified in tissue culture. Antibiotic therapy with penicillin G was administered. The postoperative course was complicated by a retroperitoneal haematoma which necessitated surgical revision. The patient was discharged 2 months afterwards. At clinical monitoring at 6 months he is still doing well.