Thoracic aortic aneurysm risk factors

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Hypertension and cigarette smoking are the most important risk factors, though the importance of genetic factors in the development of thoracic aortic aneurysm (such as familial thoracic aortic aneurysm; familial aortic dissection) has been increasingly recognized. Approximately 10% of patients may have other family members who have aortic aneurysms. It is also important to note that individuals with a history of aneurysms in other parts of the body have a higher chance of developing a thoracic aortic aneurysm.

Risk factors

Thoracic aortic aneurysm risk factors include:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• High blood pressure
• Bicuspid aortic valves
• Atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque in the arteries that can damage the lining)
• Gender

• Aortic aneurysms are three time more prevalent in males versus females

• Race

• Aortic aneurysms are more frequent in Caucasian individuals versus other races

• Individuals who have a family history of aortic aneurysms have a much higher risk of rupture and tend to develop aneurysms at a younger age
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Previous repair of a thoracic aorta aneurysm
• Turners syndrome