Mycotic aortic aneurysm due to intravesical BCG immunotherapy: Clinical manifestations and diagnostic challenges

Abstract

A live, attenuated form of Mycobacterium bovis, bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG), is commonly used as intravesical immunotherapy for non-invasive urothelial bladder carcinoma. While complications are rare, dissemination can occur. A case of mycotic aortic aneurysm following BCG administration with recovery of Mycobacterium bovis in culture is reported. A review of the published experience with this problem is also presented.

Keywords

• Mycotic aneurysm
• Psoas muscle abscess
• Mycobacterium bovis
• Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG)
• Aorta