What Is a Fusiform Aneurysm?

Aortic aneurysms can occur anywhere in the entire length of the aorta, but 3/4 are located in the abdominal aorta, including the descending thoracic aorta to the upper abdomen (thoracic and abdominal aneurysm), accounting for 1/4 of the aortic aneurysm .

Aortic aneurysm

Aortic aneurysms can occur anywhere in the entire length of the aorta, but 3/4 are located in the abdominal aorta, including the descending thoracic aorta to the upper abdomen (thoracic and abdominal aneurysm), accounting for 1/4 of the aortic aneurysm .

Aortic aneurysms can be fusiform, and a few are cystic. A fusiform aneurysm widens the entire circumference of the aorta, while a cystic aneurysm represents a partial outward expansion of the aortic wall. The inside is often covered with lamellar thrombus.

Etiology

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of aortic aneurysms, which weakens the aortic wall and dilates it. Hypertension and smoking are associated with degenerative changes in the aortic wall. Trauma, arteritis and fungal aneurysms are Rare causes. Fungal aneurysms occur at the site of a local bacterial or fungal infection of the aorta or arterial wall, which is usually caused by metastatic infection with sepsis. Local aneurysms of local aorta or arteries can be infected and are usually spread by the bloodstream. Although any bacterial or fungal pathogen can infect an aneurysm, Salmonella may have a special susceptibility to vascular tissue .