An abnormal localized swelling of the wall of an artery or vein, caused by a weakening in the vessel wall. Aneurysms most commonly occur in the brain (cerebral aneurysm), lower aorta (abdominal aortic aneurysm or AAA) or upper aorta (thoracic aortic aneurysm). Aneurysms usually present very few symptoms; however, they pose an enormous risk if they burst; rupture of an aneurysm in the brain usually causes a stroke, whilst rupture of an aortic aneurism can cause vascular shock. Rupture of either type carries a high risk of death.
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