Walsh & Hoyt: Aneurysms Caused by Infection ("Mycotic" Aneurysms)

Inflammatory or infectious processes (including spirochetes, other bacteria, and fungi) may weaken the arterial wall and predispose to aneurysm formation. In 1885, Sir William Osler used the term ""mycotic"" to refer to such aneurysms. Although this term is derived from the Greek word mykes, which means fungus, Osler was referring to aneurysms caused by bacteria, and the term is used now to describe aneurysms caused by all types of infectious agents. Mycotic aneurysms account for about 27% of all intracranial aneurysms and may develop at any age. They affect men and women equally.