A thoracic aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the aorta in the thoracic cavity (chest area), which is the first part of the artery that takes blood away from the heart. A thoracic aortic aneurysm can progressively enlarge over time and doesn’t usually have symptoms. However, if an enlarged aneurysm is not surgically repaired, it can lead to an acute aortic dissection, a tear that causes the walls of the aorta to separate and allows blood to flow where it shouldn’t. This is potentially life-threatening.

• What other names do people use for familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection?
• What are the characteristics of familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection?
• What are the causes of familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection?
• How is familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection managed?

Find these answers and more in the “Familial Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection” download.

Updated April 2021