Disease Overview

A brain aneurysm is a weak, bulging spot on the wall of an artery.

• What is a brain aneurysm?

  A brain aneurysm, also referred to as a Cerebral Aneurysm or an Intracranial Aneurysm, is a weak, bulging spot on the wall of an artery. The constant pressure of blood flow within the artery causes weak or thin spots of the artery wall to gradually become weaker and enlarge over time. This pressure may cause the aneurysm to rupture and allow blood to escape into the space around the brain called the subarachnoid space. Most individuals do not experience any symptoms from an aneurysm and only realize that they have one once it ruptures. Cerebral aneurysms can rupture and cause bleeding into the brain that could lead to serious stroke or death.

• Causes

  Smoking, high blood pressure (Hypertension), hardening of arteries (Arteriosclerosis), alcohol and underlying diseases can increase the risk for developing a brain aneurysm. Some people may be genetically prone to aneurysms which is why your physician will be interested in your family history.

• Symptoms

  Although some aneurysms can go unnoticed for a lifetime, some aneurysm patients will experience the following symptoms:

  • Limited eye movement
  • Dilated pupils
  • Double vision
  • Pain above and behind eye
  • Localized headache (may indicate a rupture)

• Diagnosis

  Asymptomatic, unruptured aneurysms can be diagnosed and located by MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) or by CT imaging (Computed Tomography Scan). This cerebral arteriography is used to confirm the presence of an aneurysm and to evaluate which treatment options may be best suited for particular aneurysms based on size, shape and location. A lumbar puncture or spinal tap may also be used to detect the presence of blood in the Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF), which may indicate the rupture of a brain aneurysm.

• Types and Classifications

  Aneurysms can be classified by size and shape.

  • Small: Up to 10mm
  • Large: 10-25mm
  • Giant: Larger than 25mm

• Shape

  • Saccular Aneurysm
  • Fusiform Aneurysm
  • Wide-neck Aneurysm
  • Ruptured Aneurysm
  • Dissecting Aneurysm