THROMBOSED ANEURYSM OF THE CERVICAL CAROTID-ARTERY - AVOIDING A RETROSPECTIVE DIAGNOSIS

Two patients with neck masses were evaluated, one with computed tomogr aphy (CT) and the other with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Each mas s was correctly identified within the carotid sheath. The correct diag nosis-thrombosed cervical carotid aneurysm-was not considered, necessi tating unexpected repair of the aneurysm or artery. Although rare, ane urysm of the cervical carotid artery should be considered in the diffe rential diagnosis of a carotid sheath mass between the jugular vein an d carotid artery. Peripheral calcification or enhancement on CT scans and a peripheral signal void on MR images are especially suggestive of the diagnosis.