Is an increased in size or balloon like region of a blood vessel.

Caused by a weakening of the wall of the vessel

Are more often seen in arteries then veins

2 main locations:

1.)   Aorta  -  Heart
2.)   Circle of Willis  -  Brain

  -  other locations includ popliteal in venous system and others

When the size of the aneurysm increases, so does the risk for rupture.

Compliations of rupure include:

  -   Severe hemorrhage
  -   Blood loss
  -   Loss of brain function
  -   Coma
  -   Death

Symptoms:

   -    Headache
   -    Blurry vision
   -    Confusion
   -    Dizziness

   -    Nausea
   -    Vomiting
   -    Chest pain
   -    Chest discomfort
   -    Difficulty breathing
   -    Fainting

Risk Factors include:

Diabetes
Obesity
High blood pressure
Family history
Smoking
Alcohol
Copper deficiency

Causes:

-      Weakness in wall due to unknown reason
-      Weakness due to atherosclerosis
-      Syphilis
-      Trauma

CT exam can help evaluate and locate ruptured cerebral aneurysms
   -    Subarachnoid Hemorrhage is often seen

Lumbar puncture can be helpful to find blood in cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment:

Watch and wait

Surgery

Hypertension

Endovascular coiling – placment into artery of a stent like coils.
- often used for the brain

Angioplasty with stent placement
- often used for the heart