Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026
06:26
Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
Published on: March 28, 2025
Aortic dilatation and dissection in Turner syndrome
Lea Ann Matura1, Vincent B Ho, Douglas R Rosing
1Developmental Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Circulation
|September 19, 2007
Summary
Women with Turner syndrome (TS) have an increased risk of aortic dissection. Aortic size index > 2.0 cm/m2 indicates significant aortic dilatation and requires close monitoring for dissection risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Genetics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Turner syndrome (TS) is associated with an elevated risk of aortic dissection in young women.
- The relationship between aortic dilatation and acute aortic dissection in TS remains unclear.
- Predictors of aortic deterioration in TS patients require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether aortic dilatation precedes aortic dissection in women with Turner syndrome.
- To identify specific aortic diameter measurements that predict impending aortic events in TS.
- To assess the utility of aortic size index in managing cardiovascular risk in TS.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 166 adult women with TS and 26 healthy female controls.
- Ascending and descending aortic diameters measured via MRI, normalized to body surface area (aortic size index).
- Follow-up for approximately 3 years to record aortic dissection events.
Main Results:
- Women with TS had similar absolute aortic diameters but significantly greater aortic size indices compared to controls.
- 32% of TS women exhibited aortic size index values above the 95th percentile (> 2.0 cm/m2).
- Three TS women experienced aortic dissections, all with ascending aortic diameters > 3.7 cm and aortic size indices > 2.5 cm/m2.
Conclusions:
- Aortic dissection risk is substantially increased in young women with TS.
- Aortic size index is a preferred measure for detecting dilatation in TS due to their shorter stature.
- Aortic size index > 2.0 cm/m2 warrants close cardiovascular surveillance; > 2.5 cm/m2 indicates the highest risk for dissection.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
01:26Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...