Overview

In most cases, aortic aneurysms are found with medical tests such as chest X-rays or chest CT scans that were performed to evaluate another condition. Abdominal aortic aneurysms may be identified by a physician who feels a pulsating bulge in the abdomen during a physical exam. Typically, abdominal aortic aneurysms are further evaluated using ultrasound or CT scans, and thoracic aortic aneurysms are evaluated using echocardiography, CT scanning, or magnetic resonance imaging.

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Aortic dissections are typically diagnosed with a CT scan or echocardiogram in the emergency room when a patient comes in with sudden, severe chest, abdominal, or back pain. When examined, about two thirds of people with aortic dissection have diminished or no pulses in their arms and legs. Some dissections may cause a heart murmur that can be heard through a stethoscope.

This section contains more information on:

• Abdominal ultrasonography
• Chest X-ray
• Computerized tomography (CT or CAT) scan
• Echocardiography
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)