Selective embolisation of an idiopathic bronchial artery pseudoaneurysm presenting with recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy: a case report

Abstract

BackgroundBronchial artery pseudoaneurysms (BAP) or aneurysms (BAA) are rare, potentially life-threatening and remain poorly understood. They are most commonly idiopathic but may be associated with a number of other disease processes. Bronchial artery embolisation (BAE) is considered the first line treatment while surgical techniques are reserved for patients with a clear contraindication to embolisation or where anatomical factors preclude an endovascular approach.Case presentationWe present an interesting case of a 56 year-old male presenting with an idiopathic unruptured right BAP causing clinical and radiological signs of left recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy. He was otherwise clinically well with no other reported symptoms and no significant past medical history. There were no significant findings on work-up and investigation. He was ultimately treated successfully with selective transarterial coil embolization of the right bronchial artery. This is an atypical presentation of a rare clinical entity and has not previously been published in the literature to our knowledge.ConclusionsBAPs and BAAs are highly variable in their presentation, ranging from incidental asymptomatic findings to catastrophic haemorrhage, depending on their location and if they are contained or ruptured. Timely diagnosis and referral to facilitate urgent embolisation is essential to prevent potentially serious clinical sequelae. Endovascular treatment in the form of BAE is considered first line.