Pediatric abdominal aortic aneurysm

What is a pediatric abdominal aortic aneurysm?

The aorta is a large artery that carries blood from the heart throughout the body. When the lower part of it becomes enlarged, this is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm. When an aneurysm ruptures (bursts), it can be life-threatening because the aorta carries blood to so many critical areas of the body.

What are the signs and symptoms of a pediatric abdominal aortic aneurysm?

• A pulsating feeling near the belly button
• Back pain
• Deep, ongoing pain in the abdomen

What are the causes of a pediatric abdominal aortic aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Blood vessel diseases in the aorta
• Family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Infection in the aorta
• Trauma, such as being in a car accident