Risk factors include male sex, a positive family history of aneurysm, smoking, hypertension and other vascular risk factors. Small aneurysms enlarge slowly, but probably as an exponential function. Symptoms occur late, and rupture may be the first indication of disease. Abdominal palpation is sensitive for large aneurysms.
Abdominal ultrasound is sensitive and specific for aneurysms of all sizes.
While there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against screening with physical examination or ultrasound, the prudent physician may choose to include a targeted physical examination for aneurysm in males over age 60 in the periodic health examination. Burden of Suffering Abdominal aortic aneurysm, a localized abnormal dilatation of the aorta, is usually due to atherosclerotic changes affecting the arterial intima. Most commonly AAA arise below the renal arteries, and remain asymptomatic for many years. As the aneurysm enlarges the incidence of rupture increases, particularly in saccular aneurysms. The characteristic presentation of rupture includes excruciating back pain, hypovolemic shock and pulsatile abdominal mass.