Innovation in pathogenesis and management of aortic aneurysm

Abstract

Aortic aneurysm (AA) refers to the persistent dilatation of the aorta, exceeding three centimeters. Investigating the pathophysiology of this condition is important for its prevention and management, given its responsibility for more than 25000 deaths in the United States. AAs are classified based on their location or morphology. various pathophysiologic pathways including inflammation, the immune system and atherosclerosis have been implicated in its development. Inflammatory markers such as transforming growth factor β, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, matrix metalloproteinase-2 and many more may contribute to this phenomenon. Several genetic disorders such as Marfan syndrome, Ehler-Danlos syndrome and Loeys-Dietz syndrome have also been associated with this disease. Recent years has seen the investigation of novel management of AA, exploring the implication of different immune suppressors, the role of radiation in shrinkage and prevention, as well as minimally invasive and newly hypothesized surgical methods. In this narrative review, we aim to present the new contributing factors involved in pathophysiology of AA. We also highlighted the novel management methods that have demonstrated promising benefits in clinical outcomes of the AA.

Keywords: Abdominal aneurysm; Aortic aneurysm; Immunotherapy; Inflammation and molecular pathways; Pathophysiology; Surgical management; Thoracic aneurysm.