PRIMARY MYCOTIC-ANEURYSM OF THE ASCENDING AORTA DIAGNOSED BY TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

Primary mycotic aneurysms are rare, and they can be difficult to diagn ose before rupture. Early diagnosis is the cornerstone to effective ma nagement. Preoperative diagnosis has traditionally involved angiograph y and computed tomography. We report a case of Staphylococcus aureus a ortitis with an aortic wall abscess and posterior pseudoaneurysm forma tion involving the ascending aorta in which transesophageal echocardio graphy was fundamental in diagnosis and patient management.