Rasmussen aneurysm: A hidden hazard

Abstract

Tuberculosis is endemic in Pakistan and other countries in South Asia despite various treatment programs being introduced for its elimination. It leads to a number of serious consequences which involve different organ systems of the body and Rasmussen Aneurysm is one such serious complication. It is the pseudo-aneurysmal dilatation of the pulmonary artery adjacent to a tubercular cavity and manifests as massive hemoptysis, like in the case of our patient. It is important to note that our patient was not diagnosed with TB and also denied any common symptoms and contact with persons with TB. This signifies that the progression to Rasmussen Aneurysm is not linear and anyone with TB may present with life-threatening hemoptysis, therefore this case report proves to be essential in raising awareness of such instances. This further highlights the need for nationwide screening programs and designated management plans.

Fig. 1

Chest CT showing a focal area of contrast within a cavity measuring 68 × 73 mm (AP x TR), depicting Rasmussen Aneurysm (red arrow). (For interpretation of the references to colour in this figure legend, the reader is referred to the Web version of this article.)

Fig. 2

CXR post-embolization showing stent placement on the left side (red arrow). (For interpretation of the references to colour in this figure legend, the reader is referred to the Web version of this article.)

Fig. 3

Follow-up post embolization CXR.