aneurysmata

Aneurysmata is a plural form derived from the Greek-influenced medical term aneurysma, used historically in Latin and some English texts to refer to an aneurysm. In contemporary English, aneurysm is the standard term, and aneurysmata is rarely used except in archaic, Latinized, or stylistic contexts. The word denotes a localized dilation or bulging of a blood vessel due to weakness in the vessel wall.

An aneurysm can involve any artery but is most commonly described in the aorta or in cerebral vessels. True aneurysms involve all three layers of the vessel wall, whereas false or pseudoaneurysms result from a breach in the vessel wall with containment by surrounding tissues or a hematoma. Aneurysms may remain asymptomatic for years or present with symptoms related to their size and location. Rupture is a life-threatening complication and can cause rapid blood loss, shock, or neurologic deficits, depending on the affected site.

Risk factors include advanced age, hypertension, atherosclerosis, smoking, certain genetic or connective tissue disorders, and a family history of aneurysms. Diagnosis typically relies on imaging, with abdominal ultrasonography used for screening of abdominal aortic aneurysms, and CT angiography or MR angiography providing detailed assessment of size, morphology, and growth. Conventional angiography can be employed in planning intervention.

Management depends on whether the aneurysm has ruptured, its size, growth rate, and location. Small, asymptomatic aneurysms may be monitored with periodic imaging, while larger or enlarging aneurysms may require repair. Treatment options include open surgical repair and endovascular aneurysm repair with a stent graft. Preventive strategies focus on controlling blood pressure, lipid levels, and lifestyle factors such as smoking cessation.