What is a mycotic aneurysm?
A person with a mycotic aneurysm has a bacterial infection of the wall of an artery, which weakens the wall of the artery and results in the formation of an aneurysm. An aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of a blood vessel. The most common locations for mycotic aneurysms include arteries in the abdomen, thigh, neck, and arm. A mycotic aneurysm is a very serious infection that can result in sepsis, or life threatening bleeding if the aneurysm ruptures. Less than 3% of abdominal aortic aneurysms are mycotic aneurysms.

What are the symptoms of a mycotic aneurysm?
Symptoms of a mycotic aneurysm depend on its size and location, and whether it is expanding or bleeding. Symptoms of expanding mycotic may include abdominal pain, thigh pain, neck pain, or arm pain. The infection may also cause a fever, nausea, weakness, and fatigue.

How does the doctor treat a mycotic aneurysm?
Treatment for a mycotic aneurysm may include antibiotics and surgery.