Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: A Clinical Review.

Ethan M Senser, Shantum Misra, Stanislav Henkin

Journal: Cardiology clinics 2021;39(4):505-515

PMID: 34686263

Full Text on Elsevier Science View on PubMed

Abstract

Thoracic aortic aneurysms are common. Most thoracic aortic aneurysms are degenerative. However, some are associated with connective tissue disorders, bicuspid aortic valves, or familial/genetic predisposition. Most are asymptomatic, discovered incidentally on imaging. Aortic diameter is the best predictor of the natural history and risk of complications. Treating hypertension and smoking cessation can slow their growth. Surveillance imaging and referral for prophylactic aortic repair based on absolute aneurysm diameter is the primary means to decrease mortality from thoracic aortic aneurysm. We provide a practical evidence-based summary of the pathophysiology, risk factors, associated genetic syndromes, and clinical management of thoracic aortic aneurysms.

Address: Heart and Vascular Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.; Department of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.; Heart and Vascular Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].

DOI: 10.1016/j.ccl.2021.06.003

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MeSH Terms: Aortic Dissection, Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic, Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Humans, Marfan Syndrome