An aneurysm is a localized, abnormal dilation or bulging in the wall of a blood vessel due to weakness in the vessel wall. Over time, the continuous pressure from blood flow can cause the aneurysm to grow in size, increasing the risk of rupture, which can lead to life-threatening bleeding or other serious complications.
Aneurysms can occur in any blood vessel but are most commonly found in:
The brain (Cerebral Aneurysm): May cause subarachnoid hemorrhage if it ruptures, leading to stroke, brain damage, or death.
The aorta (Aortic Aneurysm): Especially in the abdominal (AAA) or thoracic (TAA) regions, rupture can cause massive internal bleeding.
Peripheral arteries: Such as in the legs or spleen, though less common.
Causes and Risk Factors
Genetic predisposition
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
Smoking
Age and gender (more common in men over 60)
Infections or trauma
Symptoms
Many aneurysms are asymptomatic and found incidentally. However, symptoms may appear if the aneurysm grows large or ruptures:
Severe headache (in brain aneurysms)
Sudden severe abdominal or back pain (in aortic aneurysms)
Vision problems, nausea, or neurological deficits (in cerebral aneurysms)
Pulsating mass in the abdomen (in AAA)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis may involve:
CT scan or MRI
Cerebral or abdominal angiography
Ultrasound (especially for abdominal aneurysms)
Treatment Options
The choice of treatment depends on the size, location, growth rate, and whether the aneurysm has ruptured.
Monitoring (“Watchful Waiting”)
For small, unruptured aneurysms with low risk of rupture.
Blood pressure medications (e.g., beta-blockers) to reduce stress on the arterial wall.
Statins to lower cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis progression.
Surgical or Interventional Treatment
Open Surgical Repair: Removal of the aneurysmal segment and graft placement. Common for large or symptomatic aneurysms.
Endovascular Coiling (for cerebral aneurysms): Minimally invasive technique using coils to fill the aneurysm and prevent rupture.
Flow Diversion: Implanting a device to redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm sac.
Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR): Used for abdominal aortic aneurysms. A stent graft is inserted via catheter to reinforce the vessel wall from within.
Prognosis
Prognosis is generally good with early detection and appropriate management.
Ruptured aneurysms have a high mortality rate, especially if not treated promptly.
