Thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm

A thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm is a serious vascular condition that involves the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

It occurs when the wall of the aorta is injured, causing blood to leak between the layers of the arterial wall, creating a false aneurysm.

This differs from a true aneurysm where all three layers of the vessel wall are involved in the bulging.

Pseudoaneurysms in the thoracic aorta can result from trauma, surgical complications, infections, or severe atherosclerosis.

The condition can lead to life-threatening complications such as rupture, which may cause severe internal bleeding and can be fatal if not promptly treated.

Symptoms might include chest pain, back pain, or a palpable pulsating mass, but some individuals may remain asymptomatic until the condition is advanced.

Diagnostic imaging such as a CT scan or MRI is crucial for visualization of the pseudoaneurysm.

These scans can be part of a 'Torso' scan, which effectively detects abnormalities in the chest area.

Treatment options depend on the size and risk of rupture of the pseudoaneurysm and may include surgical repair or endovascular stenting.

Continuous monitoring and management of underlying risk factors, such as high blood pressure, are essential components of patient care for this condition.