An unsuspected extracranial internal carotid
pseudoaneurysm following dog bites: a case
report and review of literature

An unsuspected extracranial internal carotid
pseudoaneurysm following dog bites: a case
report and review of literature

Animals, Bites, Carotid artery, False aneurysm, Vascular Surgical Procedure

Abstract
Background Extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) pseudoaneurysm is a rare condition that can be caused
either by penetrating or blunt trauma, including dog bites, which is an uncommon occurrence. Together with the
possibility of no symptoms or nonspecific ones such as cervical pain, hematoma, swelling, or mass, considering ICA
pseudoaneurysm following a dog attack is of paramount importance to avoid life-threatening complications.
Case presentation We present a rare case of a 17-year-old male with a history of dog bites three months prior, who
presented to the emergency department with left-sided neck pain, dizziness, and several episodes of blurred vision
and diplopia. On physical examination, a palpable mass measuring approximately 20×30 millimeters was identified
in the left neck region and multiple superficial lacerations were observed in this area. Laboratory tests yielded
normal results. Doppler ultrasound revealed a pseudoaneurysm in the left internal carotid artery. Because the great
saphenous veins were insufficient, the patient was successfully treated with synthetic graft patch arterioplasty, and no
complications were seen in his one-year follow-up with computed tomography (CT) angiography.
Conclusions This report emphasizes the significance of thorough initial evaluation and imaging in cases of dog
attacks, even without apparent significant trauma, to rule out hidden arterial injuries.
Keywords Animals, Bites, Carotid artery, False aneurysm, Vascular Surgical Procedure

Ahmad Hosseinzadeh1

, Reza Shahriarirad1,2, Farzad Dalfardi1

, Human Arianpour1

and Fatemeh Zarimeidani1,3*

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12245-024-00688-0

2024

Peri Irawan

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