Thoracic aortic aneurysm physical examination

Physical examination
Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) are discovered after imaging studies and chest radiographs

Thoracic aortic aneurysms are asymptomatic until the aneurysm expands

Ascending aortic aneurysms: Arch aneurysms: Descending thoracic aneurysms:
 * cause anterior chest pain and superior vena cava obstruction
 * may develop aortic insufficiency, widened pulse pressure, diastolic murmur, and heart failure
 * cause neck pain and hoarseness due to stretching if the laryngeal nerves
 * cause back pain between the scapulae
 * may increase pressure to the trachea or bronchus, consequently causing dyspnea, stridor, wheezing, or cough