Aortic arch syndrome

Alternative names:

carotid artery occlusion syndrome; subclavian artery occlusive syndrome; subclavian steal syndrome; vertebral-basilar artery occlusive syndrome

Definition:

A pattern of signs and symptoms associated with abnormalities in the structure of the arteries that extend from the aortic arch (the top portion of the aorta). Symptoms include various neurologic changes, blood pressure changes, reduced pulse, and others. This syndrome is most often associated with atherosclerosis, trauma, blood clots, or congenital abnormalities of vessel structure.