Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

Introduction to Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a significant cardiovascular condition characterized by the dilatation of the abdominal aorta to more than 3 cm in diameter, often affecting the infra-renal portion. Defined in literature as a focal enlargement exceeding 1.5 times the normal aortic diameter, AAA represents a silent yet potentially life-threatening condition if left undetected.

Prevalence and Demographics

AAA is prevalent in up to 8% of men over 65 and 0.5% to 1% of women over 50, with risk escalating notably after the age of 60. Men are affected four to six times more frequently than women, and the condition is more common in Caucasians compared to other ethnicities. The condition leads to approximately 8,000 deaths annually in the UK alone.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors contribute to the development and progression of AAA, including:

Advancing age

Atherosclerosis

Smoking (a major risk factor)

Male sex

Caucasian race

Family history of AAA

Hypertension

Hypercholesterolemia

Respiratory and cerebrovascular diseases

Renal insufficiency

History of aortic dissection

Complications and Symptoms

AAA often remains asymptomatic until complications arise. Major complications include:

Rupture: The most serious complication with high mortality, particularly if the diameter exceeds 5.5...

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