Thoracic aortic aneurysm

Alternative names:

aneurysm - thoracic aortic; aortic aneurysm (thoracic); syphilitic aneurysm

Definition:

A localized dilation of the wall of the thoracic aorta caused by atherosclerosis, hypertension or, less commonly, syphilis. Syphilitic aneurysms nearly always occur at the thoracic aorta, whereas more common aneurysms, due to atherosclerosis, nearly always occur in the abdominal aorta. This condition is rare in children.