Presentation
Large pulsatile abdominal mass feeling on physical exam.
Patient Data
Fusiform aneurysmal dilatation of the infrarenal abdominal aorta is seen, which measures 75 × 70 mm (AP × LR) and extends over a distance of 120 mm. It begins about 2 cm distal of the renal arteries and extends into the right common iliac artery. A smooth circumferential mural thrombus is noted within, measuring about 22 mm in maximum thickness. There is no surrounding fat stranding or contrast extravasation to suggest impending rupture.
A 6 mm stone is noted in the gallbladder.
Several non-enhanced simple cortical cysts are seen in both kidneys.
The prostate gland is enlarged.
Case Discussion
When preparing an MRI or CT report for a patient with an aortic aneurysm, whether thoracic or abdominal, it is important to mention several key features to assist the referring clinician in patient management. Reporting tips for aortic aneurysms should cover size and shape, wall characteristics, location and relation to involved branches or structures, and probable complications.
For more details, please see: reporting tips for aortic aneurysms