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

Bacteria, fungi, spirochetes, and other organisms have the potential to infiltrate the walls of intracranial and other arteries. In some instances, this results in the formation of one or more aneurysms. In 1885, Sir William Osler used the term ""mycotic"" to refer to such aneurysms. Although this term is derived from the Greek word mykes, meaning ""fungus,"" Osler was referring to bacterial aneurysms. Nevertheless, the term generally is used to describe aneurysms caused by all types of infectious agents, not those solely due to fungi.