What causes a dilated aortic sinus in a 22-year-old male?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 22-year-old male and have been referred to a cardiologist urgently for dilated aortic sinus. I have a history of nephrectomy 8 years back, previous atrial tachycardia with catheter ablation 3 years back, and previous SVT ablation 4 years back. I recently had an echo scan that identified this issue, and I would like some information regarding this before my appointment with the cardiologist. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

We welcome you to the icliniq family.

I appreciate the confidence you place in me for your healthcare consultation. The aorta has many parts. The place from where it originates is usually the most dilated part. It has aortic sinuses, which are dilated pockets from where coronary arteries arise. There are 3 aortic sinuses. Any one or more can be dilated, usually as a familial case or due to connective tissue disorder. It is important that when excessively dilated, it can rupture.

Usually, when the aortic root crosses 40 mm in diameter, regular echo surveillance is done with yearly echocardiography to detect the progression of dilatation. Usually, when the diameter is more than 55 mm, or in the case of familial one, if it is 50 mm, then surgery is indicated to repair or replace the aortic root. The dilated aortic root can cause aortic regurgitation, dissection, or rupture.

I hope this has helped you. Thank you.