Splenic Artery Aneurysm: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of a splenic artery aneurysm?

A splenic artery aneurysm may not always present symptoms, particularly if it is small or growing slowly. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Abdominal Pain: Pain in the upper left side of the abdomen or in the left shoulder area can be a sign of a splenic artery aneurysm.
• Back Pain: Pain in the back, often in the left side, may be experienced.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive symptoms can occur, including nausea and vomiting.
• Feeling of Fullness: Some individuals may feel a sense of fullness or discomfort in the abdomen.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This may occur if the aneurysm leads to internal bleeding, causing a drop in blood pressure.
• Sudden, Severe Pain: In cases of rupture, the symptoms can become sudden and severe, with intense abdominal pain and signs of internal bleeding.
• Shock: Symptoms of shock, such as rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and fainting, can occur if the aneurysm ruptures and causes significant internal bleeding.

If a splenic artery aneurysm ruptures, it is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

What are the causes of a splenic artery aneurysm?

A splenic artery aneurysm can arise from various causes and risk factors, including:

• Atherosclerosis: Hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to cholesterol and fat (plaque) buildup can weaken the artery wall, leading to aneurysm formation.
• Fibromuscular Dysplasia: A condition affecting the structure of the arterial wall, often resulting in aneurysms.
• Pregnancy: The increased blood volume and hormonal changes during pregnancy can contribute to aneurysm development.
• Trauma: Injury or trauma to the abdomen can lead to the formation of an aneurysm.
• Infections: Certain infections, such as salmonella or tuberculosis, can cause arterial damage and contribute to aneurysm formation.
• Genetic Conditions: Rare genetic disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome, which affect connective tissues, can predispose individuals to aneurysms.
• High Blood Pressure: Chronic hypertension can weaken arterial walls over time, increasing the risk of aneurysms.
• Congenital Factors: Some individuals may be born with structural weaknesses in the arterial walls that predispose them to aneurysms.

In some cases, the exact cause of a splenic artery aneurysm may not be identified, and it may occur without any obvious underlying condition.

What is the treatment for a splenic artery aneurysm?

The treatment for a splenic artery aneurysm depends on factors such as the size of the aneurysm, the presence of symptoms, and the overall health of the patient. Options include:

• Observation: Small, asymptomatic aneurysms may be monitored with regular imaging studies to assess if there are any changes in size or symptoms.
• Medications: While medications do not treat the aneurysm directly, they may be used to manage related conditions like high blood pressure or cholesterol levels.
• Surgical Intervention: For larger or symptomatic aneurysms, surgical treatment may be necessary. This can include:
• Open Surgery: The aneurysm is repaired or removed through an abdominal incision. This may involve resection of the affected segment of the splenic artery and reconstruction or replacement with a graft.
• Endovascular Repair: A minimally invasive procedure where a stent or graft is inserted into the artery through a catheter to reinforce the vessel wall and prevent rupture.
• Embolization: A procedure where materials are injected into the artery to block blood flow to the aneurysm, often used as a less invasive alternative to surgery.

The choice of treatment is based on the individual patient’s condition, the aneurysm’s characteristics, and the potential risks and benefits of each approach.