Predictive value of computed tomographic screening of aortic aneurysms in the Mexican population older than 55 years

To determine the prevalence of aortic aneurysm (AA) in tomographic studies in the population at risk.

An observational, cross-sectional study that consisted in systematically reviewing computed tomographies (CT) of the chest and abdomen was carried out at our institution. These studies were performed for different clinical indications, we selected studies of patients older than 55 years from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016. Descriptive statistics was completed in the studied population and linear regression model was performed to determine the relationship of AA findings and the patient's age.

A total of 4809 patients were included in this study, 2707 (56%) were females. The mean age of the study population was 69 ± 9 years. The prevalence of aortic aneurysms was 5.63% (271) with a predominance in the male gender (9.5% vs. 2.9%). Of the total, 138 (2.8%) were located in the thoracic aorta and 133 (2.7%) were in the abdominal aorta. Linear regression model demonstrated a Y = 8.3 + 0.154, r² = 0.03 (p = 0.001).

Imaging screening with CT for aortic aneurysms has had a favorable impact in our institution and this reinforces the need to educate radiologists in the intentional search for this pathology. There is a positive correlation between the patient´s age and aortic diameter.