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A 48-year-old female asked:
Is a 3.8 cm descending aorta an ectasia or an aneurysm and what is the difference? can anything be done to decrease it or keep it from increasing ?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
Family Medicine 49 years experience
Vascular evaluation: ectasia refer to a loosening or widening of the aorta- an aneurysm refer to a ballooning or wall weakness, Usually benign under 5 cm.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Robert Griecoanswered
Family Medicine 39 years experience
Aneurysm: The difference between an aneurysm and a ectasia is one of degree. An ectasia is a mild enlargement of the aorta that is less then 1.5 times bigger than normal. Bigger than that is called an aneurysm. The normal size is 2cm so >3.0= aneurysm. More then 5.5 is considered large. The most important factor is very good BP control. Dr will be following this with ultrasounds every 6-12 mo. Good healh
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 25, 2022
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