Aneurysm, dissecting:
Chapter: 10
Actually a hematoma in the wall of an artery - usually the aorta. Splitting of the media occurs, blood enters the split through a tear in the intima. There is a weakening of the connective tissue of the media - cystic medial necrosis. It may be a complication of Marfan's syndrome. The majority of patients have a history of hypertension.
See Also: