Abstract
Persistent lateral branch of primitive maxillary artery is a rare anatomical variant of ophthalmic artery. It has significant implications in surgical and neurointerventional procedures because it can lead to diagnostic errors and procedural complications if misinterpreted. In this report, we presented a case of infundibular dilatation at the origin of persistent lateral branch of primitive maxillary artery, which was misdiagnosed as an internal carotid artery aneurysm and referred to our centre for embolization. Failure to recognize this anatomical variant may result in unintentional injury of ophthalmic artery, thereby endangering patients' safety and vision. Accurate interpretation of preoperative imaging and a thorough understanding of intracranial vascular embryology are therefore imperative to ensure patient safety and procedural success.