Ruptured Aortic Aneurysm Seen Initially as Acute Femoral Neuropathy

• Acute femoral neuropathy and thigh ecchymosis signaled the presence of a previously unsuspected aortic aneurysm. This diagnosis was confirmed by immediate sonography and angiography and a ruptured aneurysm was corrected surgically. A small hemorrhage into the iliopsoas fascial space may cause acute peripheral neuropathy. In patients with arteriosclerotic risk factors, this symptom should alert the physician to the need for immediate diagnosis and correction of aneurysmal rupture. (Arch Surg1982;117:811-813)