CARDIAC PATHOLOGIES
AORTIC DILATATION
Aortic dilatation is a condition in which the aorta, the main artery of the human body that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, shows abnormal enlargement or expansion of its wall. This dilation can occur in different parts of the aorta, notably the ascending aorta (the part of the aorta near the heart), the thoracic aorta (in the chest) or the abdominal aorta (in the abdomen).
Causes:
• Aortic dilatation can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
• Hypertension: Chronic high blood pressure can put excessive strain on the walls of the aorta, contributing to their dilatation.
• Atherosclerosis: The build-up of plaque within the walls of the aorta can weaken its structure, leading to dilation.
• Hereditary diseases: Certain genetic pathologies, such as Marfan syndrome or Loeys-Dietz syndrome, can predispose to aortic dilatation.
• Inflammation: Inflammatory pathologies such as Takayasu's disease or Behçet's disease can affect the walls of the aorta and contribute to their dilatation.
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Symptoms:
In many cases, aortic dilatation is asymptomatic.
In the event of a rupture of the aortic wall there is a leakage of blood into the layers of the aortic wall (aortic dissection), which can cause sudden and severe pain in the chest or back (so-called “excruciating” pain ).
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Diagnosis :
Diagnosis of aortic dilatation often relies on medical imaging techniques, including :
Echocardiography: to assess the size and function of the aorta.
Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): to obtain detailed images of the aorta and assess the extent of dilatation.
Remplacement chirurgical de l'aorte ascendante
Treatment:
• Treatment of aortic dilatation depends on several factors, such as the size of the aneurysm, its location, and underlying pathologies. Treatment options may include :
• Regular monitoring: For mild to moderate aortic dilatation without symptoms, to monitor the evolution of the aneurysm's size.
• Medications: Such as beta-blockers and ARBs to reduce blood pressure and slow the progression of dilatation.
• Surgery or endovascular intervention: to repair or replace the dilated portion of the aorta, particularly in cases of severe dilation or risk of aneurysm rupture.
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