Fixing aneurysms in kids - Research summary

BACKGROUND: Brain aneurysms occur when the walls of the blood vessels become thin and weak. As blood flows through the vessel, the weak walls may bulge out like a balloon. The bulge is called an aneurysm. Typically, the bubbles form in very predictable areas where a larger artery is branching into a smaller artery. The danger lies when the balloon gets so big or thin that it bursts. According to the Mayo Clinic, 5 percent of the population has a brain aneurysm. Many are completely unaware of their aneurysm because they are asymptomatic, meaning they have not ruptured or caused any damage.

ANEURYSMS IN KIDS: Most aneurysms are found in older individuals, usually in the 4th or 5th decade of their life. It is very rare for children to develop aneurysms. However, cases have occurred. A 2007 study by the University of Cincinnati found that the most common type of aneurysm in all age groups, including children, was a spontaneous aneurysm, with no related trauma, infection or typical warning signs.

The cause for pediatric aneurysms is unclear. Todd Abruzzo, M.D., leader of the UC study, was quoted as saying, "Unlike the adult disease, childhood aneurysms may be driven by unique predisposing factors that we have not yet identified. It could have much less to do with underlying conditions commonly thought to contribute to their development."

In pediatrics, the most common diagnosis confused with an aneurysm is meningitis. The conditions share similar symptoms in children, including fevers, headaches, stiff neck and photophobia (light bothering the eyes). Meningitis typically causes more severe fevers than an aneurysm.

TREATMENT: If the aneurysm is successfully treated, most patients should be cured for their lifetime. However, if left untreated, an aneurysm can lead to serious and dangerous risks, even death. In an article published in the journal Child's Nervous System, authors wrote, "Patients treated by endovascular means had a better outcome than when treated by surgery. Whenever possible, endovascular treatment for pediatric aneurysms is the recommended approach."

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