A cerebral aneurysm, also known as a brain aneurysm, is a bulging, weak area in the wall of an artery in the brain. This weakness causes a part of the artery wall to balloon out or widen abnormally. The concern with an aneurysm is that it can leak or rupture, leading to a life-threatening type of stroke known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).
Cerebral aneurysms can vary in size, shape, and location in the brain. They are classified into three main types:
- Saccular Aneurysms: Also known as "berry" aneurysms due to their round, berry-like shape. These are the most common type and typically form at the junctions of arteries at the base of the brain.
- Fusiform Aneurysms: These aneurysms involve the entire circumference of the artery and do not have a distinct neck, unlike saccular aneurysms.
- Mycotic Aneurysms: Caused by infections that lead to weakening of the arterial wall.
Many cerebral aneurysms do not show symptoms until they are either very large or rupture. Unruptured aneurysms may be discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other conditions. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Pain above and behind one eye
- Dilated pupil
- Vision changes, such as double vision
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the face
A ruptured cerebral aneurysm typically presents with sudden, severe headache often described as "the worst headache of my life," along with neck pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and loss of consciousness.
Risk factors for developing a cerebral aneurysm include smoking, high blood pressure, family history of cerebral aneurysms, age, and certain genetic conditions.
Diagnosis of a cerebral aneurysm often involves imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or cerebral angiography.
Treatment depends on the size, location, and shape of the aneurysm, as well as the patient's age, health, and risk of rupture. Options include monitoring for small, asymptomatic aneurysms, and surgical interventions like clipping or endovascular coiling for larger or symptomatic aneurysms.
Preventive measures include controlling high blood pressure, quitting smoking, and managing other risk factors. Regular medical check-ups and imaging tests are recommended for individuals with known cerebral aneurysms to monitor their size and growth.