Spontaneous aortocaval fistula

Ann Emerg Med. 1995 Mar;25(3):424-7. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0644(95)70305-5.

Abstract

Rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm into the inferior vena cava is uncommon. A classic syndrome of high-output heart failure, continuous abdominal bruit, and renal insufficiency has been described and permits a clinical diagnosis if an aortocaval fistula is considered in the differential diagnosis. Classic signs and symptoms can be misinterpreted and are present in less than 50% of cases. Physicians should consider abdominal ultrasonography and aortography in stable patients, followed by prompt surgical intervention. We report the case of a patient with an aortocaval fistula.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / complications*
  • Aortic Diseases / etiology*
  • Aortic Rupture / complications*
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / etiology*
  • Heart Failure / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Vena Cava, Inferior / abnormalities*