|
|
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
Alternate Names : Aneurysm - Thoracic Aortic, Aortic Aneurysm - Thoracic, Syphilitic Aneurysm
DefinitionA thoracic aortic aneurysm is a localized expansion of the wall of the aorta.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Thoracic aortic aneurysms are caused by hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), high blood pressure (hypertension), congenital disorders such as Marfan's syndrome, trauma, or less commonly, syphilis.
Atherosclerosis is by far the most common cause.
Thoracic aneurysms occur in the ascending aorta (25% of the time), the aortic arch (25% of the time), or the descending thoracic aorta (50% of the time).
Risk factors include various connective tissue disorders (such as Marfan's syndrome), atherosclerosis, previous dissection of the aorta, prolonged hypertension, and trauma (usually falls or motor vechicle accidents).
Today's Top News Stories | • | FDA Backs Cholesterol Drug Vytorin - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00
Review says it lowered bad cholesterol more effectively than Zocor. | • | Common Flu Strain Resistant to Popular Antiviral Drug - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00
But other medications are available that work, CDC officials stress. | • | Many Turn Blind Eye to Racism - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00
They're not quick to condemn hurtful comments, study suggests. | • | Studies Challenge Framingham Risk Score - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00
The long-standing assessment for heart risk may not be accurate in some cases. | • | Clinical Trials Update: Jan. 8, 2009 - Jan 08, 2009, 10:12
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Neurologic Disorders
- Seizure Disorders
|
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Prevention
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Atherosclerosis
• Hypertension
• Marfan Syndrome
• Syphilis
Review Date : 5/7/2002
Reviewed By : Allan S. Stewart, M.D., Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
