PMC6307035_01
Contrast-enhanced CT axial view of the chest showing para-aortic root collection containing pockets of gas in keeping with para-aortic root abscess.
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Computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the chest showed a 5.7 x 2.7 cm para-aortic root abscess with internal gas formation associated with trace free fluid in the mediastinum (Figs. 1 & 2 ).
PET-scan axial view showing para-aortic collection, predominantly photopenic with intense FDG-uptake identified at the inferior most component (medial aspect of the aortic root). Findings are keeping with patient's infectious para-aortic abscess.
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To avoid intravenous contrast, a positron emission tomography (PET) scan was performed on hospital day nineteen to follow the abscess which revealed an increase in the size when compared to the initial CTA with intense fluorodeoxyglucose uptake at the aortic root as well as mildly avid mediastinal lymph nodes (Figs. 3 & 4 ).