Aneurysms
From Pharmpedia
Aneurysms are abnormal dilatations on a vessel typically due to degenerative processes in the wall. Aneurysms on brain or coronary arteries may rupture (leading to sudden death), because of their high lateral pressure (Eq. 8-2).
Aortic aneurysms are usually due to arteriosclerosis with large atheromas in the wall. Aneurysms are found as pulsatile
dilatations of the abdominal or thoracic aorta (CT scanning or ultrasound examination). Rupture of an aortic aneurysm presents as
shock with epigastric pain, and requires immediate surgery. Bleeding inside the wall of the aorta obstructs the lumen (so-called
dissecting aortic aneurysm), and also here emergency surgery is required.
Left ventricular aneurysm is a complication to ischaemic heart disease often diagnosed by echocardiography (a case is drawn in
Fig.10-8).
Saccular aneurysms are found on the circle of Willis and its adjacent branches. Pulsations cause pressure on surrounding
structures, and spontaneous rupture often causes sudden death.
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