WTP1.12 Axillary Artery Aneurysm in a Patient of Achondroplasia

Background

Axillary artery aneurysms are extremely rare mainly occurring as pseudo-aneurysms. They are most commonly caused by trauma however; fungal infections, atherosclerosis, connective tissue diseases, vasculitis and thoracic outlet syndrome are also among the etiological factors.

Case Summary

Seventeen years old, unmarried, achondroplasic (three feet height) girl presented to OPD with pulsatile swelling and pian in right axilla for six months. Pain was accompanied by weakness and numbness of hand. The swelling was initially small in size which increased over time. Patient had history of left axillary artery aneurysm back in 2015 for which left axillary repair was done. There was no history of axillary trauma.

On physical examination an approximately 4×2 cm lump was palpable in right axilla. It was round in shape, mobile, pulsatile and non-expanding with no overlying skin changes. The patient had hypotonia with power of 3/5 in all limbs. Deep tendon reflexes were reduced. Rest of systemic examination was unremarkable.

CT angiography was done which showed brachiocephalic trunck and right proximal subclavian artery normal. There was a lobulated enhancing area along the course of the Right axillary artery measuring 3.5×4.7×3.0 cm. The axillary artery aneurysm was excised and arterial continuity was restored by placement of Reverse Saphenous vein graft.

Discussion

The conventional method of axillary artery aneurysm repair is aneurysmectomy followed by placement of bypass graft. Owing to long term patency, saphenous vein graft serves as an ideal for reconstruction.

Conclusion

axillary artery aneurysms should be considered as a differential for pulsatile axillary swellings and should be promptly treated to avoid life threatening complications.