The clinical presentation of an aortic aneurysm depends on its site and effects on adjacent structures.
Thoracic aneurysms
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Thoracic aneurysms may present with acute severe chest pain or aortic regurgitation.
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Compression of the trachea or bronchus may cause stridor; recurrent laryngeal nerve compression may cause hoarseness. Superior vena cava syndrome may also occur.
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Erosion into the oesophagus or bronchus may produce massive bleeding.
Abdominal aortic aneurysms
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Abdominal aortic aneurysms affect the infrarenal aortic segment.
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The usual age at elective presentation is 65–75 years; emergency presentations usually occur at 75–85 years.