Aortic Aneurysm

Reference Abdominal Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window and Reference thoracic Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window aortic aneurysms have a number of causes, including:

• Hardening of the arteries (Reference atherosclerosis). Exactly how atherosclerosis leads to abdominal aortic aneurysms is unclear. It is thought that atherosclerosis causes changes in the lining of the artery wall that may affect oxygen and nutrient flow to the aortic wall tissues. The resulting tissue damage and breakdown may lead to the development of an Reference aneurysm Opens New Window.
• Genetics. In some people who have Reference Marfan's syndrome Opens New Window, Reference Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Opens New Window, or other inherited conditions, the walls of the major arteries, including the Reference aorta Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window, are weakened. Aortic aneurysms run in families.
• Aging. The aorta naturally becomes less elastic and stiffer with age, increasing the risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
• Infections. Infections such as syphilis and endocarditis, an infection of the lining of the heart, can cause aneurysms.
• Injury. A sudden, intense blow to the chest or abdomen, such as hitting the steering wheel in a car accident, can damage the aorta.
• Inflammation. Inflammation of the aorta can weaken the aortic wall. What causes the aorta to become inflamed is not clear.

Thoracic aortic aneurysms are much less common than abdominal aortic aneurysms. They are often caused by an abnormal breakdown of the elastic fibers in the aortic wall.

A pseudoaneurysm happens when a bulge occurs in the wall of the aorta. But the bulge doesn't affect all three layers of tissue in the wall of the aorta. This type of aneurysm might be caused by an injury.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.