aneurysm
Pronunciation: AN-yuh-rizm
Localized dilation or ballooning of a blood vessel wall, most critically concerning when occurring in cerebral arteries.
Full Definition
An aneurysm is a localized, abnormal dilation of a blood vessel caused by weakness in the vessel wall. In neurology, cerebral aneurysms are of particular concern due to their potential for rupture, leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage with high morbidity and mortality. Most cerebral aneurysms are berry or saccular aneurysms occurring at arterial bifurcations in the Circle of Willis. Risk factors include hypertension, smoking, family history, and certain connective tissue disorders. Treatment options include surgical clipping or endovascular coiling, with choice depending on aneurysm characteristics, patient factors, and rupture status.
Usage
Usage note: Specify location and rupture status when known. Alternative spelling 'aneurism' is less common but acceptable.
In Context
- "The patient presented with sudden severe headache due to rupture of an anterior communicating artery aneurysm." — emergency department note
- "Incidental unruptured aneurysm was discovered on routine imaging and scheduled for elective coiling." — radiology report