Cervical aortic arch: an unusual cause of a pulsatile neck mass. (5th September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Steele, Lloyd; Silver, Benjamin; Beegun, Issa; Saleh, Hesham
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2018
• Publication Date: 2018-09-05
• Subjects: ear, nose and throat/otolaryngology -- vascular surgery -- otolaryngology / ent; Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-224515
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : A 72-year-old man presented with epistaxis on two occasions requiring admission. Prior to performing a bilateral sphenopalatine artery ligation diathermy, anaesthetic concern was raised regarding what the patient described as a 'congenital aortic aneurysm', with an overlying scar secondary to explorative surgery as a child. The abnormality was a cervical aortic arch (CAA). CAA is a rare vascular anomaly, which most commonly manifests as a pulsatile neck mass. In this case, we discuss the differential diagnosis for a pulsatile neck mass and considerations to be made in the workup. We also highlight the importance of cardiovascular risk factor management in patients with CAA.