Saccular Aneurysm is a medical condition characterized by a small 'sac-like' bulge in a blood vessel. The word 'saccular' is pronounced /ˈsækjələr/, with stress on the second syllable. The first syllable 'sac' is pronounced with a short 'a' sound followed by a 'k' sound, whereas the second syllable 'cu' is pronounced with a 'k' and 'yu' sound. The word 'aneurysm' is pronounced /ˈæn.jə.rɪ.zəm/ with stress on the second syllable. The first syllable 'an' is pronounced with a short 'a' sound, followed by a 'n' sound. The second syllable 'eu' is pronounced with a 'yoo' sound followed by a 'r' sound.
A saccular aneurysm is a pathological condition characterized by the abnormal ballooning or dilatation of a blood vessel, usually an artery, that forms a sac-like structure. This type of aneurysm is also known as a berry aneurysm due to its appearance, resembling a small berry attached to the vessel wall. Saccular aneurysms typically develop at weak points in the arterial wall, where there is an underlying structural defect.
These aneurysms are commonly found in the brain, particularly in the blood vessels supplying the circle of Willis, a crucial circulatory structure at the base of the brain. However, they can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. The main concern with saccular aneurysms is the risk of rupture, which can lead to severe bleeding, resulting in potential neurological damage or even death.
The exact cause of saccular aneurysms is still unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including high blood pressure, smoking, congenital defects, connective tissue disorders, and a family history of aneurysms. Diagnosis often involves imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or angiography, to visualize the aneurysm and its size.
Treatment options for saccular aneurysms aim to prevent rupture and may include surgical interventions, such as clipping or coil embolization, where a small metal coil is placed inside the aneurysm to block blood flow and reduce the risk of rupture. Close monitoring and regular follow-up are essential to detect any changes in the size or condition of the aneurysm.
A sac-like bulging on one side of an artery, formed of the middle and outer coats.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "saccular aneurysm" is derived from two main sources:
1. Saccular: The term "saccular" is derived from the Latin word "saccus", meaning "bag" or "sack". In medical terminology, "saccular" refers to something shaped like a sac or pouch.
2. Aneurysm: The word "aneurysm" is derived from the Greek word "aneurysma", which comes from "aneuryssein", meaning "to dilate". In medical terminology, it refers to an abnormal localized dilation of a blood vessel, usually caused by a weakening of the vessel wall.
Therefore, "saccular aneurysm" refers to a specific type of aneurysm characterized by a sac-like dilation of a blood vessel.