Bringing awareness to aneurysms in the chest
A thoracic aneurysm is a weak spot in the wall of the heart’s largest blood vessel (the aorta) as it passes through the chest. Most are found by accident during a test for another reason. Certain people should be screened for this rare but potentially deadly condition. These include people with a bicuspid aortic valve and certain genetic conditions; those whose close relatives had a thoracic aneurysm; and those who had surgery to replace an aortic valve before age 70.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.
With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!
Already a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
