The aorta is the largest artery in the human body. It begins in the chest, where it is referred to as the thoracic aorta, and extends to the abdomen, where it is referred to as the abdominal aorta. An abdominal aortic aneurysm, also referred to as triple-a or AAA, is a weakening of the wall of the abdominal aorta, allowing it to bulge like a balloon. Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a very serious condition that can be life threatening if the aortic walls become too weak and rupture. Several factors may contribute to formation of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is believed to play a major role in formation of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries, is a result of plaque or fats building up on the inside of the artery. The same risks factors that cause coronary artery disease contribute to aneurysm formation because atherosclerosis is also the leading cause of heart disease. The risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and heredity.
Genetic Disorders
Inherited disorders that affect connective tissue (bone, cartilage, heart and blood vessels) may result in abdominal aortic aneurysm. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disease of the connective tissue that causes abnormally long arms and fingers. Abdominal aortic aneurysm can be a side effect in individuals with Marfan syndrome. Patients diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may also be susceptible to AAA. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a connective tissue disorder that affects collagen formation in the body. People with Ehlers-Danlos may have extremely flexible fingers and toes and extremely loose joints. Turner's syndrome is another genetic disorder that may result in AAA. In Turner's syndrome, all or part of one of the sex hormones is absent. Turner's disease occurs primarily in females and may increase susceptibility to cardiovascular issues such as AAA.
Giant Cell Arteritis
Giant cell arteritis is defined as inflammation and damage to the medium or larger arteries. This inflammation or swelling in the arteries will cause decreased blood flow to the area the affected artery supplies. This condition most commonly occurs in the large arteries in the neck and upper arms that supply blood to the head. It is possible, however, for this to be a systemic (body-wide) occurrence. Due to this lack of blood flow and damage done to the artery, an abdominal aortic aneurysm may form.
Infections
Abdominal aortic aneurysm formation as a result of an infection is very rare. However a condition known a infectious aortitis (infection of the aorta) may result in AAA formation. Infectious aortitis is a side effect of infections such as syphilis, salmonella, and staphylococcus.
Trauma
Sudden trauma to the abdomen may cause an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Abdominal trauma such as motor vehicle accident can cause a sudden tear in the abdominal aorta, immediately resulting in aneurysm formation.
