Author: Gordon K. Klintworth
Luetic aortitis (syphilitic aortitis, Döhle-Heller aortitis, Leller-Döhle aortitis, aortitis syphilica) is aortitis due to syphilis. The aortitis is a manifestation of tertiary syphilis [syphilis - tertiary] and the lesion results from a slowing progressive endarteritis obliterans of the vasa vasorum of the aorta. This leads to necrosis of the tunica media of the aorta and a weakening of the wall of the aorta and an an aortic aneurysm [aneurysm - aorta]. An complication is aortic insufficiency due to a dilatation of the aortic ring with a separation of the valve cusps of the aortic valve. Stenosis or occlusion of the orifices of the coronary arteries may also occur and cause myocardial infarction [infarction - myocardium].