53. Luetic aortitis

Organ: Aorta

Description:

The whole aortic segment is aneurysmal, so the aorta extremely dilated

Diagnosis: Luetic aortitis

Causes:

Stage III syphilis

Theory:

Luetic aortitis is a condition characteristic for stage III syphilis. For syphilis to advance to stage III must many years pass after the initial infection. Luetic aortitis causes severe aneurysm formation, which can rupture the aorta.

Stage III syphilis is so rare nowadays due to antibiotics. It’s so rare that it’s rarely asked on the exam. That doesn’t mean that people never get it, so do study it!