Aortic nipple

Case contributed by Mohammad Taghi Niknejad
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Workup for cough.

Patient Data

Age: 65 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

A small focal bulge is noted lateral to the aortic knob inferring an aortic nipple.

Case Discussion

The aortic nipple is a vascular shadow that may be seen in the superior or lateral aspect of the aortic knob and represents the left superior intercostal vein. It becomes prominent with an increase in intrathoracic pressure or due to superior vena cava obstruction. It should not be confused with lymphadenopathy or a small tumour.

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