# Giant Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Rupture in a Patient with Extensive Atherosclerotic Disease

## TL;DR

This paper presents a case of a thoracic aortic aneurysm rupture caused by severe atherosclerosis and complex plaques in the descending aorta.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in illustrating a rare case of aneurysm rupture directly linked to extensive atherosclerotic disease with multiple penetrating ulcers.

## Key findings

- Thoracic aortic aneurysm rupture was caused by extensive atherosclerotic disease with multiple penetrating ulcerated plaques.
- CT angiography revealed thrombus presence, aneurysm extent, and its relationship to adjacent structures.
- The case highlights the importance of recognizing atherosclerosis as a cause of aneurysm rupture.

## Abstract

Aneurysmal dilatations can affect any aortic segment and represent the result of various causes, atherosclerotic disease being the most common and frequently involved.

We hereby illustrate a case of a patient with thoracic aortic aneurysm rupture due to extensive atherosclerotic disease, with multiple complex penetrating ulcerated atherosclerotic plaques located in the descending aorta.

CT angiography evaluation included a comprehensive description of imaging features and extent of the thoracic aortic aneurysm, the presence of thrombus, relationship to adjacent structures and branches, associated complications.

Teaching Point: Thoracic aortic aneurysm rupture due to extensive atherosclerotic disease with multiple penetrating ulcers.