Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a balloon-shaped bulging on a weakened area of the abdominal aorta. The aorta is the main artery that comes out of the heart and delivers oxygenated blood to all parts of the body.  Abdominal-Aortic Aneurysm(AAA) Symptoms AAAs may not cause any symptoms at first. When symptoms do occur, they include a pulsing sensation in the abdomen, and pain ranging from mild to severe. Pain may be located in the abdominal, back, or groin area. Sudden, excruciating pain in the lower abdomen and back pain usually indicates a ruptured aorta, which needs to be treated immediately.(2) Diagnosis In some cases, aortic aneurysms are diagnosed from a routine chest X-ray or chest CT scan taken to evaluate another condition, such as lung disease. Some abdominal aortic aneurysms are noticed by a physician who feels a pulsating bulge in the abdomen during a physical exam.(3) AAA may be evaluated further by ultrasound or CT scanning. Thoracic aortic aneurysms are typically evaluated by echocardiography, CT scanning or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Occasionally, a test called an aortogram is required.(3) 1. FamilyDoctor.org, “Abdominal aortic Aneurysm(AAA).“ Available at http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/articles/883.html. Accessed December 15, 2008 2. Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, “Abdominal aortic aneurysm(AAA).” http://www.hmc.psu.edu/healthinfo/a/abaortic.htm. Accessed December 15, 2008 3. Mayo Clinic, “Aortic aneurysms.” Available at http://www.mayoclinic.org/aortic-aneurysm/diagnosis.html. Accessed December 15, 2008 Return from abdominal aortic aneurysm to the heart
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