112 MCQs in Pathology Answer

The Correct option is C

Syphilitic aneurysms are due to inflammation of Aortic vasa vasorum. The most common sites of arterial involvement are the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and the pulmonary artery.

Syphilis aortitis is characterized by peri-aortic and meso-aortic inflammation with perivascular cuffing of lymphocytes around the vasa vasorum. Obstruction of the vasa vasorum follows, resulting in nutritional impairment of the medial coat together with degeneration of the muscle fibres. Aneurysmal dilatation eventually ensues as a result of weakening of the medial layer. Syphilitic aneurysms are either fusiform or saccular and may attain great size and compress
contiguous structures. Rupture into the thoracic cavity, pericardial sac, oesophagus or vena cava are known complications.

Reference: Rubin's Pathology, Fifth Edition, page 421.

Category: Pathology MCQs