Shaggy aorta: ideal substrate for disaster. Updated review.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Vascular Biology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Shaggy aorta (SA) is a critical and extensive atheromatous disease affecting the thoracic and abdominal aorta.
• This pathology results from numerous modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.
• SA poses significant clinical importance due to associated syndromes, leading to high morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated and detailed review of shaggy aorta.
• To elaborate on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies for SA.
• To examine clinical scenarios of SA in various aortic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on shaggy aorta.
• Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms.
• Evaluation of diagnostic modalities, emphasizing multimodal imaging.
• Review of current therapeutic approaches.
• Case study analysis of SA in aortic dissection, ulcerated plaques, and thrombosed aneurysms.

Main Results:

• Shaggy aorta is a complex degenerative condition with multifactorial etiology.
• Multimodal imaging is crucial for accurate diagnosis of SA.
• Therapeutic strategies are tailored to the specific clinical presentation and extent of SA.
• SA is associated with severe aortic events and carries a high mortality rate.

Conclusions:

• Shaggy aorta represents a significant vascular pathology requiring comprehensive understanding.
• Early and accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging is vital for patient management.
• A multidisciplinary approach to treatment is essential for improving outcomes in SA patients.
• Further research into SA pathogenesis and treatment is warranted.