Spontaneous Rupture of the Thoracic Aorta

Abstract

Rupture of the aorta is usually a complication of aneurysm formation associated with atherosclerosis.1–5 Rupture also may be associated with cystic medial necrosis and Marfan's syndrome, aortitis, mycotic infection, or syphilis. In these instances, rupture usually is preceded by aneurysm.2,4,5 In children and adolescents, coarctation of the aorta may lead to aneurysm formation and rupture.6 Dissection of the intima from the rest of the wall may follow an intimal tear and eventually lead to rupture. These instances are associated usually with hypertension and frequently not preceded by an aneurysm.7,8 Finally, trauma such as deceleration injuries from motor vehicle accidents may lead to rupture in the absence of antecedent disease.2,4 This report is of an elderly man with the unusual occurrence of rupture of the aorta unassociated with aneurysm, dissection, or trauma.