Aneurysm - aortic

Alternative names

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Definition

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is an abnormal ballooning of the abdominal portion of the aorta, which is the major artery from the heart.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Abdominal aortic aneurysm involves a dilation, stretching, or ballooning of the aorta. The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include Atherosclerosis and hypertension. Abdominal aortic aneurysm may be caused by infection, congenital weakening of the connective tissue component of the artery wall, or trauma. (An aneurysm caused by trauma is rare.)

Abdominal aortic aneurysm can affect anyone, but it is most often seen in men aged 40 to 70. A common complication is rupture. This is a medical emergency where the aneurysm breaks open, resulting in profuse bleeding. Rupture occurs more frequently in patients with larger aneurysms. Aortic dissection occurs when the lining of the artery tears and blood leaks into the wall of the artery.

In children, abdominal aortic aneurysm can result from blunt abdominal injury or from Marfan's syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms of abdominal aortic aneurysm may include a pulsating abdominal mass with rhythmic throbbing. However, there are often no symptoms.

Symptoms of rupture:

• Pulsating sensation in the abdomen
  
• Pain in the abdomen
  o Severe, sudden, persistent or constant
  o Not colicky or spasmodic
  o May radiate to groin, buttocks, or legs
  o May begin suddenly
  
• Abdominal rigidity
  
• Pain in the lower back
  o Severe, sudden, persistent
  o May radiate
  
• Paleness
  
• Rapid pulse
  
• Dry skin/mouth
  
• Excessive thirst
  
• Anxiety
  
• nausea and Vomiting
  
• Light-headedness with upright posture
  
• Fainting with upright posture
  
• Excessive sweating
  
• Clammy skin
  
• Fatigue (tiredness or weariness)
  
• Heartbeat sensations
  
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) when rising to standing position