Case report

Mycotic aneurysm of the popliteal artery secondary to Streptococus pneumoniae: a case report and review of the literature

Shane D Killeen¹ , Noel O'Brien¹ , Martin J O'Sullivan¹ , George Karr² , H Paul Redmond¹ and Gregory J Fulton¹

¹  Departments of General Surgery, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland

²  Neurosurgery, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork, Ireland

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Journal of Medical Case Reports 2009, 3:117doi:10.1186/1752-1947-3-117

Published:	10 November 2009

Abstract

Introduction

Cases of true mycotic popliteal artery aneurysm are rare. Presentation is variable but invasive and non-invasive investigations collectively facilitate diagnosis and guide operative procedures. Definitive treatment generally utilizes surgical intervention with excision and reconstruction using autologous vein graft. Prolonged targeted antibiotic therapy is an important adjuvant.

Case presentation

We describe the clinical presentation, radiological investigations and strategies on the management of a 47-year-old Caucasian Irish man who presented with a mycotic aneurysm of the popliteal artery due to thromboembolisation from Streptococus pneumoniae endocarditis.

Conclusion

Cases of true mycotic popliteal artery aneurysms are rare. To the best of our knowledge this is the first documented case of a popliteal artery mycotic aneurysm developing secondary to Streptococus pneumoniae highlighting the changing profile of causative microorganisms.