Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Creation of Two Saccular Elastase-Digested Aneurysms with Different Hemodynamics in One Rabbit
07:04

Creation of Two Saccular Elastase-Digested Aneurysms with Different Hemodynamics in One Rabbit

Published on: April 15, 2021

Multiple aneurysms of the splenic artery caused by fibromuscular dysplasia

Susumu Watada1, Hideaki Obara, Masayuki Shimoda

  • 1Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.

Annals of Vascular Surgery
|July 22, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This study reports a rare case of fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) causing extensive splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) in a 64-year-old man. The findings highlight a unique presentation of FMD affecting the splenic artery, leading to multiple large aneurysms.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) are uncommon vascular lesions.
  • Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a rare non-atherosclerotic, non-inflammatory condition affecting arterial walls.
  • Isolated splenic artery involvement by FMD is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A 64-year-old male presented with long, segmental, large, and multiple SAAs.
  • The splenic artery originated directly from the aorta.
  • The patient underwent endoaneurysmorrhaphy, splenectomy, and proximal splenic artery ligation.

Findings:

  • Histopathological examination of the resected splenic artery confirmed features consistent with fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD).
  • This case represents, to our knowledge, the first report of extensive, long, segmental, large, and multiple SAAs attributed to FMD affecting the splenic artery alone.

Implications:

  • This case expands the known spectrum of vascular manifestations of fibromuscular dysplasia.
  • It underscores the importance of considering FMD in the differential diagnosis of complex splenic artery aneurysms, even in the absence of typical FMD risk factors.
  • Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying FMD-induced SAAs and inform management strategies.

Related Concept Videos

Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm 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...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm 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...
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction01:30

Atherosclerosis I: Introduction

Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction01:24

Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction

Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care01:26

Aneurysm 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...
Diverticular Disease of the Colon01:27

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...