A rare case of aortitis presenting as chest pain: a case report and literature review

Chest pain is a frequent reason patients seek medical attention. The broad spectrum of potential etiologies makes determining the underlying cause of chest pain complex. Among cardiovascular etiologies, aortitis is a rare but life-threatening possibility that should be considered in the differential diagnosis. A 53-year-old female with a history of smoking presented with progressively worsening chest and epigastric pain over several weeks. She had seen multiple physicians previously for the same symptoms with unremarkable workups. Physical exam was notable for severe tenderness upon palpation of her lower abdomen. Electrocardiogram and troponins were unremarkable. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed aneurysmal dilatation of the abdominal aorta, soft tissue thickening, and surrounding inflammatory stranding, consistent with aortitis. Infectious and autoimmune workups were unremarkable. Intravenous steroids were initiated, and her symptoms improved significantly. Her aortitis was attributed to inflammation secondary to chronic smoking. Aortitis is a rare condition with varied clinical presentations. Etiologies of aortitis include infection and non-infectious inflammation. Diagnosis of aortitis requires a thorough clinical assessment and prompt imaging of the aorta, with CT being the preferred imaging modality. Evaluation for cardiovascular chest pain must extend beyond an electrocardiogram and troponin level. Imaging should be considered in patients with atypical symptoms. Aortitis is a rare but important diagnosis requiring immediate treatment.