Mycotic aneurysms in pregnancy

The presentation, management, and outcome of three cases of femoral artery mycotic aneurysm in pregnancy are described. All resulted from illicit intravenous drug use. While the literature dealing with drug abuse in pregnancy is large, this specific problem has received little attention. Comparison of these cases to a large reported series of nonpregnant patients with mycotic aneurysms from our institution demonstrates that pregnancy does not alter the natural course of this condition. The presence of a mycotic aneurysm in pregnancy does, however, appear to lead to significant maternal and fetal morbidity. Guidelines for diagnosis and management are discussed.