Unexpected giant cell aortitis in a young patient

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Giant cell aortitis is a rare cause of ascending aortic aneurysm disease. Patients presenting with aneurysms caused by giant cell aortitis are at high risk of devastating complications.

Case presentation: A 35-year-old female with an ascending aortic aneurysm, underwent an aortic root and ascending aorta replacement and subsequently was found to have giant cell aortitis on histopathology.

Discussion and conclusion: This case illustrates a very rare cause for aortopathy in a young healthy patient, who may have ruptured or dissected, if not for timely operative intervention.

Keywords: Aneurysm; Aortitis; Aortopathy; Cardiac surgery; Giant cell.