Aneurysm

Aneurysms are abnormal swellings in the wall of a vessel - usually an artery - which develop as a result of weakness in the vessel wall. This can occur as a result of damage (in the adult to the wall of the left ventricle following a heart attack, for example) or because of a genetic predisposition (as in Marfan’s syndrome - see the bone and joint section), but in children the commonest cause is Kawasaki's disease. This is thought to be the result of an abnormal response to a number of infections, and in some it causes aneurysms of the coronary arteries which may rupture and cause sudden death. Treatment involving immunoglobulin and aspirin reduces the risk.

Berry aneurysms are small swellings present on arteries in the brain, which may rupture and cause sub arachnoid haemorrhage. They may present in late adolescence with severe headache and collapse - sometimes mistaken for meningitis. There are thought to be genetic influences playing a part in the development of Berry aneurysms, with a defect of collagen structure. Family members may wish to consider being screened, since elective surgery may repair the aneurysm before it ruptures.
 
 
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