The mega aorta syndrome is a rare disorder with diffuse enlargement of the entire aorta.
Features - all of the following:
(1) dilatation of the all or most of the thoracic aorta
(2) dilatation of all or most of the abdominal aorta
(3) variable dilatation of major branch arteries
Causes:
(1) diffuse large vessel vasculitis (Takayasu, Giant Cell)
(2) myxoid degeneration of the aortic media
(3) other connective tissue disorders including Marfan's syndrome
Complications may include:
(1) obstructive pneumonia (due to compression of the main bronchi)
(2) neurological symptoms due to reduced perfusion through the carotid and/or vertebral arteries
(3) aortoiliac obstruction
(4) aortic rupture
(5) dissection
(6) aortic valve insufficiency
Management usually involves replacement of the entire aorta in 2 or more operative stages.
