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Peripheral aneurysms and arteriomegaly: is there a familial pattern?
P F Lawrence1, C Wallis, P B Dobrin
1University of Utah School of Medicine, and Department of Surgery, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City 84132, USA.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|October 24, 1998
Summary
Familial patterns of aneurysms show a gradient from peripheral arterial aneurysm to abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) to arteriomegaly. Relatives of patients with these conditions most frequently develop AAA, suggesting a need for targeted screening.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) affects 11-18% of patients with a first-degree relative with AAA.
- Familial patterns in peripheral arterial aneurysms and arteriomegaly are not well-documented.
- This study investigates familial patterns in these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine familial patterns in peripheral arterial aneurysm and arteriomegaly.
- To compare these patterns with those observed in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
Main Methods:
- Constructed pedigrees for first-degree relatives of patients diagnosed with peripheral arterial aneurysm, arteriomegaly, or AAA between 1988-1996.
- Confirmed aneurysm presence and risk factors through telephone interviews and medical record reviews.
Main Results:
- Familial incidence rates were 10% for peripheral arterial aneurysm, 22% for AAA, and 36% for arteriomegaly.
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) was the most common diagnosis (86%) among relatives.
- Aneurysms predominantly occurred in men (85%).
Conclusions:
- A gradient of familial patterns exists from peripheral arterial aneurysm to AAA to arteriomegaly.
- Relatives of patients with these conditions most frequently develop AAA.
- Screening recommendations include physical exams for peripheral aneurysmal disease and limited aortic ultrasound screening for relatives of AAA or arteriomegaly patients.