Question

1. Describe the histological changes that occur in individuals that have an aneurysm. In which structure(s) does this occur? What are the clinical manifestations of this disorder?

Answer 1

Aneurysms - It is localized , abnormal permanent dilation of blood vessel or the heart.

Morphological forms of aneurysms -

1. Fusiform.

2. Saccular.

3. Cylindrical.

4. Serpentine.

Locations - 1. Atherosclerotic aneurysms in arterial wall.

2. Syphilitic aneurysm - seen in ascending aorta.

Pathogenesis - It is seen in

1.Marfan syndrome - defective synthesis of fibrillin. This leads to weakening of aortic wall.

2. Ehlers danlos syndrome - defective synthesis of Type-3 collagen.

3. Increased degradation of connective tissue.

4. Infections - mainly fungal mycotic aneurysms.

Clinical manifestations -

1. Un-ruptured aneurysms can leads to formation of clot and thrombus formation. The dislodged thrombi is called embolus which can leads to ischemia.

2. Abdominal pain, back pain and difficulty in breathing.

3. Angina .