Abdominal Aortic Aneurysum

Question 1

Pathological Stages of AAA

Answer 1

Small: <4 cm (low risk of rupture)
Medium: 4-5.4 cm (moderate risk)
Large: ≥5.5 cm (high rupture risk)
Ruptured AAA: Life-threatening emergency

Question 2

Presentation of AAA (Often Silent)

Answer 2

Asymptomatic: Detected incidentally during imaging

Symptomatic (Non-ruptured):
Pulsating abdominal mass
Dull, constant back or abdominal pain
Pain may radiate to the flank or groin
Ruptured AAA Symptoms:

Sudden, severe abdominal or back pain
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Syncope (fainting)
Shock (cold, clammy skin, rapid pulse)

Question 3

Causes & Risk Factors for AAA

Answer 3

Primary Causes:
Atherosclerosis (most common)
Degeneration of vessel wall

Risk Factors:
Male gender
Age >65 years
Smoking history
Family history of AAA
Hypertension
Connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos)

Question 4

Red Flags for AAA

Answer 4

Sudden onset of severe abdominal or back pain
Pulsatile mass in the abdomen
Signs of shock (low BP, tachycardia, pallor)
Unexplained syncope
Rapid deterioration of vital signs