Rupture of the Renal Artery Aneurysm in a Patient with Symptoms of a Systemic Connective Tissue Disorder – A Case Review

Overview

The renal arteries aneurysms are relatively rare, however, their rupture has a high mortality rate. The authors present a casereview of a 38-year old female, hospitalized with a pain in the left lumbar region, lasting for 24 hours, which spread into the mesogastrium and the left groin. Upon angiographic examination, the left renal artery aneurysm was detected. Embolization was conducted, aiming to save the kidney, however, it proved unsuccessful and was complicated by a rupture of the aneurysm. Consequently, urgent nephrectomy was completed. Prior to the procedure, massive haemorrhaging from the right groin following angiography, was managed. Relapsing haemorrhaging from the right groin and development of a major retroperitoneal haematoma, complicated the postoperative course and required repetitive postoperative revisions. The accidental finding of a minor aneurysm of the lienal artery, the patient’s constitution, her anamnestic data and the complicated course of hospitalization, suggested the systemic connective tissue disorder.

Furthermore, the authors discuss contemporary diagnostic and therapeutic approach to the renal arteries aneurysms.

Key words:
arteriography – renal artery – ruptured aneurysm – systemic connective tissue disorder