A thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is an abnormal widening or ballooning of the aorta found in the chest. About 20% of cases are linked to family history. Risk factors for a thoracic aneurysm include:

• Changes caused by age
• Connective tissue disorders such as Marfan or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
• Inflammation of the aorta
• Injury from falls or motor vehicle accidents
• Syphilis

Signs & Symptoms

Thoracic aortic aneurysms often grow slowly and without symptoms, making them difficult to detect. Some patients may experience:

• Tenderness or pain in the chest
• Back pain
• Hoarseness
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Diagnosis

If a Deborah physician suspects a thoracic aortic aneurysm, they may order the following tests:

• Echocardiogram
• Computed tomography (CT scan)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)