Study note

Aortic aneurysm: definition, distribution and frequency

THE CONTEXT

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal dilatation of the aortic lumen, most commonly involving the infrarenal abdominal aorta.

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The infrarenal abdominal aorta is the commonest site.

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The suprarenal abdominal aorta and a variable length of the descending thoracic aorta may be affected in 10%–20% of patients.

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The ascending aorta is usually spared.

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Abdominal aortic aneurysms affect men three times more commonly than women.

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They are estimated to occur in about 5% of men over 60 years of age.

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