PATHOLOGIES
CEREBRAL ANEURYSM
A cerebral aneurysm, also known as a brain aneurysm, is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain caused by a weakened wall of the vessel. Over time, the pressure of blood flow can cause this weak spot to enlarge, forming a sac-like structure. While many cerebral aneurysms remain small and asymptomatic, larger aneurysms or those that rupture can lead to severe complications, including a life-threatening condition known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the space surrounding the brain).
cerebral aneurysm
The exact cause of cerebral aneurysms is not always clear, but risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, a family history of aneurysms, advanced age, and medical conditions like connective tissue disorders or polycystic kidney disease. Traumatic head injuries or infections may also contribute to their formation.
Unruptured aneurysms often produce no symptoms and are discovered incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated conditions. However, larger aneurysms may press on nearby brain tissues or nerves, causing headaches, vision problems, or facial pain. A ruptured aneurysm typically presents with a sudden, severe headache (often described as the “worst headache of my life”), nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and loss of consciousness.
Diagnosis involves imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, or cerebral angiography to visualize the aneurysm.
Treatment depends on the size, location, and risk of rupture. Options include surgical clipping to seal off the aneurysm or endovascular coiling, where a catheter is used to fill the aneurysm with coils to prevent blood flow. Managing risk factors, such as controlling blood pressure and avoiding smoking, is crucial to reducing the likelihood of aneurysm growth or rupture. Early detection and prompt treatment can prevent catastrophic outcomes.
