DISSECTING ANEURYSM DURING PREGNANCY AND THE PUERPERIUM

Abstract
Approximately half of the dissecting aneurysms in women under 40 yr of age are associated with pregnancy. This significant relationship between dissecting aneurysm and pregnancy is discussed by considering hemodynamic stress and the hormonal changes of pregnancy. Patients (5) with dissecting aneurysm during pregnancy or the puerperium are discussed. The literature is reviewed and the influence of pregnancy on pathogenesis is discussed.