Tętniak tętnicy podkolanowej
Etiologia i przyczyny

Tętniak tętnicy podkolanowej (PAA) jest najczęstszym tętniakiem obwodowym, stanowiącym drugą co do częstości lokalizację po tętniaku aorty brzusznej. Etiologia PAA jest wieloczynnikowa, z miażdżycą jako dominującą przyczyną (>90% przypadków), prowadzącą do osłabienia ściany tętnicy i jej patologicznego poszerzenia. Czynniki ryzyka obejmują nadciśnienie tętnicze, palenie tytoniu, hipercholesterolemię, otyłość oraz predyspozycje genetyczne, takie jak zespół Marfana czy Ehlersa-Danlosa. Patogeneza obejmuje degradację błony środkowej przez metaloproteinazy, naciek zapalny oraz mechaniczny stres związany z ruchem kolana. PAA występuje głównie u mężczyzn rasy białej w szóstej i siódmej dekadzie życia, często obustronnie (50-70%) i współistnieje z tętniakiem aorty brzusznej u około 40% pacjentów.

Etiologia tętniaka tętnicy podkolanowej

Tętniak tętnicy podkolanowej (PAA – Popliteal Artery Aneurysm) to nieprawidłowe uwypuklenie ściany tętnicy podkolanowej, która znajduje się za stawem kolanowym. Jest to najczęstszy tętniak obwodowy i drugi pod względem częstości występowania po tętniaku aorty brzusznej. Dokładna etiologia tętniaka tętnicy podkolanowej nie jest w pełni poznana, a mechanizmy patogenetyczne są złożone i wieloczynnikowe.123

Miażdżyca jako główna przyczyna

Miażdżyca jest najczęściej identyfikowaną przyczyną powstawania tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej, odpowiedzialną za ponad 90% przypadków. Proces miażdżycowy prowadzi do osłabienia ściany tętnicy, co skutkuje jej poszerzeniem i balonowatym uwypukleniem.456 Złogi miażdżycowe gromadzące się w wewnętrznej warstwie ściany tętnicy powodują jej zwężenie i utwardzenie, co prowadzi do zwiększonej turbulencji przepływu krwi. Ta zwiększona turbulencja, szczególnie w miejscu względnego zwężenia w rozwórze ścięgnistym mięśnia przywodziciela wielkiego, może przyczyniać się do patologicznego rozszerzenia tętnicy.57

Aktualny stan badań wskazuje, że zmniejszona wytrzymałość ściany tętnicy, związana z naciekiem komórek zapalnych, skutkuje tworzeniem się tętniaka. Badania molekularne sugerują, że połączenie defektów genetycznych i procesów zapalnych odgrywa kluczową rolę w patogenezie.18

Nadciśnienie tętnicze

Nadciśnienie tętnicze jest istotnym czynnikiem przyczyniającym się do powstawania tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej. Długotrwale podwyższone ciśnienie krwi powoduje uszkodzenie ścian tętnic, co czyni je bardziej podatnymi na osłabienie i rozszerzenie. Ciśnienie wywierane na osłabioną ścianę tętnicy może prowadzić do jej stopniowego rozciągania i ostatecznie do utworzenia tętniaka.91011

Uszkodzenia mechaniczne tętnic

Powtarzalne zginanie i prostowanie kolana powoduje napięcie ściany tętnicy podkolanowej. Ten mechaniczny stres może z czasem prowadzić do osłabienia ściany tętnicy, szczególnie u osób starszych lub z już istniejącymi czynnikami ryzyka naczyniowego.912

Ponadto, urazy bezpośrednie tętnicy podkolanowej mogą prowadzić do rozwoju tętniaków rzekomych, w przeciwieństwie do tętniaków prawdziwych, które są najczęstszą formą.313

Zespół uwięźnięcia tętnicy podkolanowej

Zespół uwięźnięcia tętnicy podkolanowej (popliteal artery entrapment syndrome) może być rzadką przyczyną powstawania tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej. W tym zespole nieprawidłowa anatomia mięśnia lub ścięgna w okolicy dołu podkolanowego powoduje ucisk na tętnicę podkolanową. Ten ucisk może prowadzić do rozwoju tętniaka postenotycznego.614

Czynniki genetyczne i choroby tkanki łącznej

Choroby tkanki łącznej, takie jak zespół Marfana i zespół Ehlersa-Danlosa, są związane ze zwiększonym ryzykiem rozwoju tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej. Te zaburzenia genetyczne prowadzą do osłabienia struktury ściany tętnicy, czyniąc ją bardziej podatną na rozszerzenie.17

Historia rodzinna chorób tętniakowych jest również istotnym czynnikiem ryzyka, sugerując genetyczną predyspozycję do rozwoju tętniaków. U pacjentów z wieloma tętniakami w różnych tętnicach musi istnieć podstawowa słabość tkanek, chociaż dokładna natura tego defektu nie została jeszcze w pełni wyjaśniona.1512

Infekcje tętnicy podkolanowej

Zakażenia tętnicy podkolanowej, znane również jako tętniaki mykotyczne, mogą prowadzić do rozwoju tętniaków. Tętniaki mykotyczne są konsekwencją zatorów septycznych, zwykle pochodzących z bakteryjnego zapalenia wsierdzia, gdzie zatory osadzają się w świetle lub vasa vasorum prawidłowych lub nieprawidłowych tętnic obwodowych. Prowadzi to do zakażenia ściany naczynia i niedokrwienia, powodując destrukcję błony środkowej i tworzenie tętniaka.16

Prawidłowa błona wewnętrzna jest bardzo odporna na zakażenia, dlatego zdrowe tętnice są rzadko dotknięte, chyba że organizm jest bardzo zjadliwy lub pacjent jest w stanie immunosupresji.16

Czynniki ryzyka

Modyfikowalne czynniki ryzyka

Wśród modyfikowalnych czynników ryzyka rozwoju tętniaka tętnicy podkolanowej wymienia się:11017

  • Palenie tytoniu – jest to najbardziej znaczący czynnik ryzyka, zwiększający prawdopodobieństwo wystąpienia problemów naczyniowych, które mogą prowadzić do tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej i innych naczyń18
  • Miażdżyca – akumulacja złogów tłuszczowych w ścianach tętnic zwiększa ryzyko rozwoju tętniaka19
  • Nadciśnienie tętnicze – długotrwale podwyższone ciśnienie krwi uszkadza ściany tętnic, czyniąc je bardziej podatnymi na osłabienie11
  • Hipercholesterolemia – wysoki poziom cholesterolu przyczynia się do rozwoju miażdżycy, która jest główną przyczyną tętniaków2021
  • Otyłość – zwiększa ryzyko rozwoju chorób naczyniowych, w tym tętniaków21

Niemodyfikowalne czynniki ryzyka

Niemodyfikowalne czynniki ryzyka to te, na które pacjent nie ma wpływu:115

  • Zaawansowany wiek – tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej są częstsze u osób starszych, szczególnie w szóstej i siódmej dekadzie życia10
  • Płeć męska – tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej występują niemal wyłącznie u mężczyzn (do 97% przypadków)36
  • Rasa biała – większa częstość występowania u osób rasy białej15
  • Historia rodzinna chorób tętniakowych – genetyczna predyspozycja zwiększa ryzyko rozwoju tętniaków2022

Współistniejące choroby naczyniowe

Istnieje silny związek między tętniakiem tętnicy podkolanowej a innymi chorobami naczyniowymi:37

  • Tętniak aorty brzusznej – około 40% pacjentów z tętniakiem tętnicy podkolanowej ma również tętniak aorty brzusznej. Z kolei u osób z tętniakiem aorty brzusznej częstość występowania tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej jest o 28% wyższa niż w populacji ogólnej23
  • Obustronne tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej – tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej są obustronne w 50-70% przypadków3
  • Obecność trzech lub więcej tętniaków w dowolnym miejscu ciała – zwiększa ryzyko rozwoju tętniaka tętnicy podkolanowej1024

Wrodzone i dziedziczne zaburzenia

Niektóre wrodzone i dziedziczne zaburzenia zwiększają ryzyko rozwoju tętniaków, w tym tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej:25

  • Dysplazja włóknisto-mięśniowa – nieprawidłowy wzrost komórek w ścianach tętnic26
  • Zespół Marfana – dziedziczne zaburzenie tkanki łącznej25
  • Zespół Ehlersa-Danlosa – grupa zaburzeń dziedzicznych wpływających na tkankę łączną1
  • Wielotorbielowate zwyrodnienie nerek – dziedziczne zaburzenie charakteryzujące się rozwojem torbieli w nerkach25
  • Koarktacja aorty – wrodzone zwężenie aorty25
  • Mózgowa malformacja tętniczo-żylna – nieprawidłowe połączenie między tętnicami i żyłami w mózgu25

Mechanizmy patogenetyczne

Patogeneza tętniaka tętnicy podkolanowej jest złożona i obejmuje wiele procesów molekularnych i komórkowych:127

  • Degradacja błony środkowej i przydanki przez metaloproteinazy macierzy pozakomórkowej i zmniejszenie liczby komórek mięśni gładkich27
  • Naciek komórek zapalnych do ściany tętnicy, co prowadzi do jej osłabienia i rozszerzenia1
  • Zwiększona turbulencja przepływu krwi dystalnie do zwężenia miażdżycowego, co prowadzi do patologicznego rozszerzenia tętnicy1
  • Powtarzalne zgięcia i wyprosty kolana powodujące mechaniczny stres na tętnicę podkolanową28

Typy tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej

Tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej można podzielić na dwie główne kategorie:3

  • Tętniaki prawdziwe – najczęstszy typ, zazwyczaj o etiologii zwyrodnieniowej, obejmujący wszystkie warstwy ściany tętnicy329
  • Tętniaki rzekome (pseudotętniaki) – powstające w wyniku urazu, interwencji chirurgicznych/zabiegowych lub infekcji314

Rzadkie przyczyny tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej

Oprócz głównych przyczyn, istnieją również rzadsze etiologie tętniaków tętnicy podkolanowej:1630

  • Tętniaki mykotyczne – spowodowane zakażeniem tętnicy, zwykle w wyniku zatorów septycznych16
  • Zapalenie tętnic – takie jak choroba Becheta lub choroba Takayasu3132
  • Idiopatyczne tętniaki – bez identyfikowalnej przyczyny, szczególnie u młodszych pacjentów bez typowych czynników ryzyka30
  • Ciąża – związana z niektórymi tętniakami obwodowymi, choć rzadko z tętniakami tętnicy podkolanowej2533

Komplikacje i znaczenie kliniczne

Tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej mogą prowadzić do poważnych powikłań, jeśli nie są leczone:3423

  • Zakrzepica – tworzenie się skrzepów wewnątrz tętniaka, które mogą prowadzić do całkowitego zamknięcia tętnicy i ostrego niedokrwienia kończyny35
  • Zatorowość obwodowa – odrywanie się fragmentów skrzepów i ich przemieszczanie do mniejszych tętnic dystalnych, prowadzące do zespołu niebieskiego palca (blue toe syndrome) lub innych zmian niedokrwiennych3637
  • Pęknięcie tętniaka – choć rzadkie, może prowadzić do ciężkiego krwawienia i wstrząsu3517
  • Ucisk na okoliczne struktury – może powodować ból, drętwienie i mrowienie w dolnej kończynie7
  • Powikłania sercowo-naczyniowe – tętniaki tętnicy podkolanowej są często związane z innymi chorobami sercowo-naczyniowymi, w tym miażdżycą, co może zwiększać ryzyko zawału serca i udaru mózgu38

Ryzyko poważnych powikłań, takich jak ostre niedokrwienie kończyny, jest znaczące, zwłaszcza w przypadku nieleczonych tętniaków. Prawdopodobieństwo wystąpienia objawów u nieleczonych pacjentów wynosi 34% po 3 latach u bezobjawowych pacjentów z prawidłowymi tętnem obwodowym, ale wzrasta do 86% u bezobjawowych pacjentów z brakiem tętna.39

Śmiertelność związana z tętniakami tętnicy podkolanowej jest niska, ale ryzyko utraty kończyny może być znaczące, szczególnie w przypadku ostrego niedokrwienia z powodu zakrzepicy lub zatorowości.4

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK430863/
    Popliteal artery aneurysms occur when the diameter of the popliteal artery undergoes focal dilation, exceeding 50% of its normal range, which typically varies from 0.7 to 1.1 cm. […] Modifiable risk factors include smoking, atherosclerosis, and connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Non-modifiable risk factors include advanced age, male gender, White race, and family history of aneurysmal disease. […] The etiology of popliteal artery aneurysms and general aneurysms is unknown. Molecular studies suggest that a combination of genetic defects and inflammatory processes are responsible. Atherosclerosis tends to increase flow turbulence distal to a stenosis, leading to a pathological dilation of the artery. According to current research, decreased wall strength associated with inflammatory cell infiltration results in aneurysm formation.
  • #2 What are the Symptoms & Causes of a Popliteal Aneurysm?
    https://legsmatter.org/information-and-support/health-concerns/popliteal-aneurysm/
    Popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) are the second most common aneurysms after abdominal aortic aneurysms and the most common peripheral arterial aneurysms of the limbs. […] The exact number of people who may have suffered with them, is currently unknown due to a lack of evidence but a few studies suggest they can be more prevalent in the people aged between 60 and 70 years. They can be more frequently found in people who have abdominal aortic aneurysms. Which may suggest a genetic / inherited predisposition to the development of aneurysmal diseases. […] Arterial aneurysms can affect any artery of our body (aorta, limbs, brain and internal organs). Sometimes vessels can weaken and expand like a balloon, known as an aneurysm. More rarely, aneurysms can also be caused due to trauma or surgical procedures resulting in the damage of the arteries.
  • #3 Popliteal artery aneurysm | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/popliteal-artery-aneurysm?lang=us
    Popliteal artery aneurysms are the most common peripheral arterial aneurysm and the second most common aneurysm after abdominal aortic aneurysms. […] They occur almost exclusively in males (up to 97%) for unknown reasons. […] There is a strong association with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA); ~ 40% of patients with a popliteal artery aneurysm have a AAA, though only 10-15% of patients with AAA have popliteal artery aneurysms. […] Although rare, connective tissue diseases (e.g. Ehlers-Danlos) are associated with multiple arterial aneurysms at an early age. […] Popliteal artery aneurysms are bilateral in 50 to 70% of cases. […] They can either be true or false aneurysms: true aneurysms of the popliteal artery (commonest) are usually degenerative; false aneurysms result from trauma, surgery/intervention, or infection.
  • #4 Popliteal Aneurysm: Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/popliteal-aneurysm
    A popliteal aneurysm is an enlarged section of an artery behind your knee. […] Popliteal aneurysms can cause issues if they burst (rupture), send a clot down your leg (embolize) or block artery flow (thrombose). Some people can lose their legs or even their lives when this condition takes a turn for the worse. […] Researchers arent sure what causes a popliteal aneurysm. Possible popliteal aneurysm causes include: Inflammation, Atherosclerosis, Popliteal artery entrapment, Traumatic Injury. […] Providers believe atherosclerosis is the main cause of a popliteal aneurysm.
  • #5 Popliteal Artery Aneurysms – Endovascular Today
    https://evtoday.com/articles/2003-nov/1103_08.html
    Popliteal artery aneurysms are the most common peripheral artery aneurysms, comprising 70% to 85% of the total aneurysms in the periphery. […] Atherosclerosis appears to be the etiology in more than 90% of cases. […] The true pathogenesis behind popliteal artery aneurysm formation is not known, and factors such as turbulence distal to the relative stenosis at the tendinous hiatus of the adductor magnus and repeated flexion at the knee have been postulated; this does not, however, account for the association with aneurysms in other locations or the male preponderance. […] Long-term graft patency rates directly correlate with preoperative ischemic symptoms. […] Several studies have suggested that these aneurysms have a higher rate of thromboembolism than larger aneurysms. […] The primary difficulty in evaluating the success of endovascular technology on popliteal artery aneurysms is the lack of study population.
  • #6 Peripheral Arterial Aneurysms – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/peripheral-arterial-disorders/peripheral-arterial-aneurysms
    About 70% of peripheral arterial aneurysms are popliteal aneurysms; 20% are iliofemoral aneurysms. […] Common causes of peripheral arterial aneurysms include atherosclerosis, popliteal artery entrapment, and septic emboli, which cause mycotic aneurysms. […] Peripheral arterial aneurysms occur mainly in men; the most common location is the popliteal artery.
  • #7 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm | Symptoms And Causes
    https://frontiervascular.com/popliteal-artery-aneurysm/
    Popliteal artery aneurysms can be due to atherosclerotic plaques, a buildup of plaque at the internal walls of the artery, or by way of a connective tissue ailment including Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. […] The presence of a popliteal artery aneurysm of the popliteal artery in 7-20% of cases (according to other sources, in 40-50%) is associated with aneurysms of other vessels. […] Especially, in individuals with an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the incidence of popliteal artery aneurysms is 28% higher than in the general population. […] Popliteal artery aneurysms can cause a number complications, including: Blood clots: A clot can shape inside the peripheral popliteal artery aneurysms, leading to a blockage of blood vessels to the lower legs and foot. […] Popliteal artery aneurysms are more common in men and older adults, and there may be no signs appearing at the start. however, as popliteal artery aneurysms grow larger, popliteal aneurysms can compress the encircling nerves and vessels, leading to aches, numbness, and tingling within the lower limbs and foot. […] In some instances, a clot may also shape in popliteal artery aneurysm and cause a blockage, which can lead to acute limb ischemia and tissue harm.
  • #8 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm – Treatment and Symptoms | Apollo Hospitals
    https://www.apollohospitals.com/diseases-and-conditions/popliteal-artery-aneurysm-treatment-and-symptoms
    Popliteal artery aneurysms, like other aneurysms, have an unknown origin. Molecular research suggests that a mix of genetic flaws and inflammatory processes may be to blame. […] Popliteal aneurysms are unknown in their specific etiology. However, atherosclerosis may play a part. A popliteal aneurysm can also be caused by trauma to the artery.
  • #9 Popliteal artery aneurysm | Altru Health System
    https://www.altru.org/health-library/conditions/popliteal-artery-aneurysm
    An aneurysm is a ballooning in a weak spot in an artery wall. Many different things can cause the popliteal artery wall to become weak, including: […] Atherosclerosis. […] High blood pressure. […] Wear and tear of the popliteal artery due to repeat use of the knee joint.
  • #10 Popliteal artery aneurysm | Beacon Health System
    https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/diseases-and-conditions/popliteal-artery-aneurysm?content_id=CON-20248747
    A popliteal artery aneurysm is an irregular bulge that occurs in the wall of the artery located behind the knee joint. […] An aneurysm is a ballooning in a weak spot in an artery wall. Many different things can cause the popliteal artery wall to become weak, including: Atherosclerosis. High blood pressure. Wear and tear of the popliteal artery due to repeat use of the knee joint. […] Popliteal artery aneurysm often occurs in men with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). […] Other risk factors for popliteal artery aneurysm include: Growing older. High blood pressure. Smoking. Narrowing of a heart valve. Having three or more aneurysms anywhere in the body.
  • #11 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
    https://www.doctorshubnepal.com/diseases-conditions/popliteal-artery-aneurysm
    A popliteal artery aneurysm occurs when the wall of the popliteal artery becomes weak, allowing it to balloon out. There are several factors that can contribute to the weakness of the popliteal artery wall, including: […] Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. […] High blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of the arteries, making them more susceptible to weakness. […] Wear and tear of the popliteal artery: The popliteal artery is subject to repeated stress and strain as it flexes and extends with each movement of the knee joint. This can cause wear and tear on the artery wall, leading to weakness. […] High blood pressure can increase the risk of developing a popliteal artery aneurysm. […] Smoking can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of developing a popliteal artery aneurysm.
  • #12 Popliteal Aneurysms | ANZSVS
    https://anzsvs.org.au/patient-information/popliteal-aneurysms/
    We do not know exactly why popliteal aneurysms develop but they are thought to be caused by atherosclerosis. […] Atherosclerosis is an important factor but why this might cause dilating disease (aneurysms) in some circumstances and occlusive disease in others is unclear. […] In patients with multiple aneurysms in different arteries there must be an underlying weakness in the tissues. […] The exact nature of this has not been clarified yet. […] Possibly the propensity of the popliteal artery to develop aneurysms is related to the flexion stresses on the artery when the knee is bent and straightened, in conjunction with an underlying tendency for aneurysm development.
  • #13 Popliteal Aneurysm Treatment | UVA Health
    https://uvahealth.com/services/aortic-artery-disease/popliteal-aneurysm
    A popliteal aneurysm is a bulge and weakness in the wall of the popliteal artery, which sends blood to your knee joint, thigh, and calf. […] We don’t know the exact cause of popliteal aneurysms. Atherosclerosis may play a role. Injury of the artery may also cause a popliteal aneurysm.
  • #14 Surgical Treatment of Popliteal False Aneurysm Consequent to Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome
    https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jsvs/33/2/33_24-00013/_article/-char/en
    Popliteal artery (PA) entrapment syndrome is a rare cause of popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA). […] PA entrapment syndrome should be considered before treating PAA, especially atypical pseudoaneurysm without significant atherosclerosis.
  • #15 Popliteal artery aneurysm – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Popliteal_artery_aneurysm
    A popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is a bulging (aneurysm) of the popliteal artery. The cause of these aneurysms is unknown, but they are more common in older people and men and occur in both legs about 50% of the time. […] Risk factors predisposing to the development of a PAA include: tobacco smoking, atherosclerosis, connective tissue disorders (such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), advanced age (peaking in the 6th to 7th decade of life), male gender, White race, and a family history of aneurysm.
  • #16 Mycotic aneurysm of the popliteal artery secondary to Streptococus pneumoniae: a case report and review of the literature | Journal of Medical Case Reports | Full Text
    https://jmedicalcasereports.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1752-1947-3-117
    Cases of true mycotic popliteal artery aneurysm are rare. […] To the best of our knowledge this is the first documented case of a popliteal artery mycotic aneurysm developing secondary to Streptococus pneumoniae highlighting the changing profile of causative microorganisms. […] MPAA is a consequence of septic embolisation, usually from bacterial endocarditis, whereby emboli are lodged in the lumen or vaso vasorum of normal or abnormal peripheral arteries. This leads to vessel wall infection and ischemia resulting in medial destruction and aneurysm formation. […] The normal intima is very resistant to infection and, therefore, healthy arteries are rarely affected unless the organism is very virulent or the patient is immunocompromised. […] In less than 50% of reported cases, the causative organism can be identified from operative specimens as a result of pre-operative antibiotic therapy. […] Cases of exotic organisms are getting more isolated, which probably reflects an aging and immunocompromised population and increased use of prosthetic heart valves.
  • #17 Popliteal Artery Aneurysms
    https://vascularinstitute.com/blog/8731/Popliteal-Artery-Aneurysms
    Popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is the dilation and thinning of the popliteal artery which can occur at any point in the posterior distal thigh or knee. The ballooning of the artery can occur through a variety of etiologies consider concurrent cardiovascular disease, autoimmune status, or inflammatory state. […] Risk factors associated with PAA include: – smoking – male sex – hypertension – increased age – high cholesterol. […] While a rare complication of PAA (reported in 2-5% in some sources), rupture of the aneurysm may be life-threatening.
  • #18
    https://www.paducahvascular.com/popliteal-artery-aneurysm
    An aneurysm occurs when the wall of an artery is weakened as you get older and the artery dilates/expands due to the blood pressure on the wall of the artery. […] Risk factors for this type of aneurysm include a personal history of aneurysms, family history of aneurysms, cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
  • #19
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/peripheral-arterial-disease-pad/
    PAD is usually caused by a build-up of fatty deposits in the walls of the leg arteries. The fatty deposits (atheroma) are made up of cholesterol and other waste substances. […] The build-up of fatty deposits on the walls of the arteries makes the arteries narrower and restricts blood flow to the legs. This process is called atherosclerosis. […] There are certain things that can increase your chances of developing PAD and other forms of CVD, including: smoking the most significant risk factor, type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, growing older.
  • #20 Peripheral Artery Aneurysm Sydney | Open Aneurysm Repair Treatment Sydney
    https://www.sydneyvascularsurgery.com.au/peripheral-artery-aneurysm.html
    Peripheral arterial aneurysms most commonly develop in the popliteal artery, which runs down the lower part of your thigh and knee. […] The cause of aneurysm is not known, but there are numerous risk factors that include: Family history – genetics plays a significant role, A history of smoking, High blood pressure, High cholesterol, Atherosclerosis (hardened arteries). […] If a peripheral arterial aneurysm is found in one leg, you are at greater risk of having one in the other leg. Peripheral arterial aneurysm also increases your risk of developing an aortic aneurysm.
  • #21 Peripheral Aneurysm I Ohio State Medical Center
    https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/heart-vascular/vascular-care/peripheral-aneurysm
    Peripheral aneurysms develop in arteries other than the aorta (the largest artery in your body). […] The specific cause of a peripheral aneurysm is not clear; injury, infection and aging can be factors. […] Researchers believe that atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) plays an important role. […] Risk factors that contribute to atherosclerosis include: Family history of heart or vascular disease, High blood pressure, High cholesterol, Obesity, Smoking. […] If a peripheral aneurysm is found in one leg, you are at greater risk of having one in the other leg. Peripheral aneurysm also increases your risk of aortic aneurysm.
  • #22 Peripheral Aneurysm Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
    https://www.upmc.com/services/heart-vascular/conditions/peripheral-aneurysm
    Popliteal artery aneurysms are rare and occur more frequently in men than women. […] They are most common in people who have: […] A family history of aneurysms. […] Issues with the structure of their blood vessel walls like connective tissue disorders. […] A history of smoking. […] Had an aneurysm before.
  • #23 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm | Symptoms And Causes
    https://frontiervascular.com/popliteal-artery-aneurysm-revealed/
    Popliteal artery aneurysms can be due to atherosclerotic plaques, a build-up of plaque at the internal walls of the artery, or by way of a connective tissue ailment including Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. […] The presence of popliteal artery aneurysms of the popliteal artery in 7-20% of cases (according to other sources, in 40-50%) is associated with aneurysms of other vessels. […] Especially, in individuals with an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the incidence of popliteal artery aneurysms is 28% higher than in the general population. […] Popliteal artery aneurysms are serious when bursting causing severe bleeding and may lead to shock also formation of clots over it may make it serious. […] Popliteal arterial aneurysms can cause several complications, including: Blood clots: A clot can shape inside the peripheral artery aneurysms, leading to a blockage of vessels to the lower legs and foot.
  • #24 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
    https://www.doctorshubnepal.com/diseases-conditions/popliteal-artery-aneurysm
    Narrowing of a heart valve can increase the risk of developing a popliteal artery aneurysm. […] Having three or more aneurysms anywhere in the body: If you have had three or more aneurysms diagnosed in other areas of your body, you may be at increased risk of developing a popliteal artery aneurysm.
  • #25
    https://sales-demo.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=141&pid=1&gid=001122
    An aneurysm is an abnormal widening or ballooning of a part of an artery due to weakness in the wall of the blood vessel. […] It is often not clear exactly what causes aneurysms. Some aneurysms are present at birth (congenital). Defects in some parts of the artery wall may be a cause. […] Certain factors or conditions may increase the risk for aneurysms including: High blood pressure (thoracic, abdominal and cerebral aneurysms), High cholesterol, Cigarette smoking, Illicit drug use (cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamine), Pregnancy (often linked to splenic artery aneurysms), Family history (sibling, parent, or child). […] Inherited disorders that may increase the risk include: Fibromuscular dysplasia (abnormal cell growth in artery walls), Marfan syndrome, Polycystic kidney disease, Coarctation of the aorta, Cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
  • #26 Aneurysm: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/understanding-aneurysm-basics
    Popliteal artery. One of the more common peripheral vascular aneurysms, it is a bulging or weakness in the wall of the artery that supplies blood to the knee joint, calf, and thigh. […] Any condition that causes your artery walls to weaken can bring one on. The most common culprits are atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. […] Some inherited disorders also may increase your risk for an aneurysm including: Fibromuscular dysplasia, Polycystic kidney disease, Coarctation of the aorta, Cerebral arteriovenous malformation.
  • #27 Evaluation, Diagnosis and Management of Popliteal Artery Aneurysms: A Clinical Review | Aguila | Journal of Current Surgery
    https://www.currentsurgery.org/index.php/jcs/article/view/174/120
    Aneurysmal disease of the popliteal artery is more common than historically thought with most of the cases going unrecognized, many times until ischemic symptoms to the leg brings it to the physicians attention. […] The common pathophysiological defect where most of the etiologies converge seems to be degeneration of the artery media through a variety of mechanisms including metalloproteinases. Since the most important etiologic factor is atherosclerosis, it is expected that these patients will have other vascular manifestations in multiple other locations. […] The etiologic factors associated with PAA are most commonly atherosclerosis and post-obstructive angioectasia. Infectious processes are less frequent but remain a well documented etiology factor. Regardless of the etiology, common pathophysiologic factors found include media and adventitial degeneration by metalloproteinases and depletion of smooth muscle cells.
  • #28 Popliteal Artery Disease: Practice Essentials, Anatomy, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/461910-overview
    Popliteal artery occlusive disease can be caused by emboli, popliteal entrapment syndrome, cystic adventitial disease, and trauma. […] The exact cause of popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is not known. […] Molecular studies suggest that PAAs are caused by a combination of a genetic defect and inflammation. […] Historically, the common causes of PAA were mycotic, syphilitic, or traumatic in nature. […] As the population ages, arteriosclerosis seems to be the dominant associated factor. […] Turbulent flow distal to arteriosclerotic lesions is believed to result in distal dilation of the vessel at the adductor hiatus. […] Decreased wall strength, turbulent flow, and constant kinking and motion from normal movement of the knee joint are believed to result in aneurysm formation.
  • #29 Thrombosed Popliteal Aneurysm – MD Searchlight
    https://mdsearchlight.com/health/thrombosed-popliteal-aneurysm/
    Popliteal artery aneurysms are a type of aneurysms that affect all layers of the artery wall. An aneurysm is when a part of an artery wall weakens, causing it to widen or balloon out. […] When the popliteal artery, an artery behind the knee, starts to expand unusually in a spindle-shaped or balloon-like manner, its because the vessel wall is losing its strength. This causes the vessel to enlarge, which can eventually lead to an aneurysm, a dangerous ballooning of the artery. This usually happens due to unbalanced production and breakdown of materials that make up the artery wall. […] However, its important to note that scientists still dont know the specific cause of why the popliteal artery might form an aneurysm. The process is complex and likely involves many factors.
  • #30 Giant Popliteal Artery Aneurysm in a Teenager: An Unusual Occurrence
    https://www.jchestsurg.org/journal/view.html?uid=6119&vmd=Full
    Giant popliteal artery aneurysm is an uncommon entity. If untreated, it results in life-threatening complications. It is usually seen in older patients (over 60 years of age), and atherosclerotic disease is its main cause. Few cases have been reported in young adults, and its incidence in teenagers is exceptionally rare, with scarce case reports in the literature. […] Popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is the second most common type of peripheral arterial aneurysm, after aortoiliac segment aneurysm. Atherosclerosis is its most common cause, while less common causes include trauma, congenital popliteal aneurysm, mycotic aneurysm, and inflammatory arteritis. Left untreated, PAA leads to many dreadful complications. […] PAAs are usually seen in older patients due to atherosclerosis and degenerative changes. Our patient had no familial background of connective tissue diseases such as Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or any other autoimmune vascular disease. He had no history of trauma, rheumatic fever, or Kawasaki disease, suggesting that the aneurysm was idiopathic.
  • #31 Evaluation, Diagnosis and Management of Popliteal Artery Aneurysms: A Clinical Review | Aguila | Journal of Current Surgery
    https://www.currentsurgery.org/index.php/jcs/article/view/174/120
    Other associated factors include cigarette smoking, hypertension and cardiac disease. Diabetes is more common in patients with PAA than the general population but is actually associated with slower progression rates compared to non diabetic patients. […] Bechets and Marfans syndromes are associated with an increased incidence of PAA but there are likely multiple genetic factors that have yet to be elucidated.
  • #32 Peripheral and Visceral Artery Aneurysms – TeachMeSurgery
    https://teachmesurgery.com/vascular/peripheral/peripheral-visceral-aneurysm/
    The aetiology of peripheral and visceral aneurysm is largely unknown. Possible causes include trauma, infection, connective tissue disease (e.g. Marfans disease), or inflammatory disease (e.g. Takayasus aortitis). […] The most common peripheral artery aneurysms occur in the popliteal artery and femoral artery. […] Popliteal aneurysms are the most common site for peripheral aneurysms, accounting for 70-80%. They have a high risk of embolisation and/or occlusion.
  • #33 Aneurysm – Health Tips, Aneurysm Health Articles, Health News | TheHealthSite.com
    https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/aneurysm/
    It is not known why a person develops aneurysm. However, some aneurysms are present at birth (congenital). It can also develop due to persistent stress to that part of the artery wall leading to aneurysm of that particular part of the body. […] Popliteal aneurysm: It occurs when the popliteal artery found behind the knee is affected. […] Commonly seen in pregnant women, this type of aneurysm is caused spontaneously and cannot be linked to any congenital defect.
  • #34 What are the Symptoms & Causes of a Popliteal Aneurysm?
    https://legsmatter.org/information-and-support/health-concerns/popliteal-aneurysm/
    Wherever they occur within the body, aneurysms can lead to limb loss or life-threatening complications either in the form of a burst or ruptured artery or the sudden blockage of the artery (also known as acute ischaemia) due to the build-up of a clot inside the aneurysm sac. The clot can block the artery at the level of the aneurysm or can become detached and travel within the bloodstream, obstructing the circulation in the smaller arteries of the extremities.
  • #35 Aneurysm – Knowledge @ AMBOSS
    https://www.amboss.com/us/knowledge/aneurysm/
    Screen for contralateral popliteal artery aneurysm and AAA. […] Risk stratify for acute limb ischemia, e.g., using Rutherford grading. […] Begin management of acute limb ischemia, e.g., anticoagulation, if present. […] Optimize management of ASCVD. […] […] […] Surgery […] The decision to repair is multifactorial and depends on aneurysm size, thromboembolic risk, perioperative risk assessment, and the patient’s life expectancy. […] Indications include: […] Diameter 2 cm […] Presence of thrombus and/or suspicion of embolism […] Distal arterial insufficiency […] […] […] Complications […] Acute limb ischemia and possible loss of limb […] Chronic thrombus and/or distal embolization, e.g., blue toe syndrome […] Rupture (rare)
  • #36 Blue Toe Sign as the Initial Manifestation of a Popliteal Artery Aneurysm | Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
    https://actasdermo.org/en-blue-toe-sign-as-initial-articulo-S1578219011000357
    Blue toe syndrome (BTS) is defined as the development of a blue or violaceous discoloration of 1 or more toes in the absence of trauma, serious cold-related injury, or alterations that could cause diffuse cyanosis. […] The results of additional tests performed to determine the etiology and pathogenesis of the aneurysm were not consistent with a diagnosis of Marfan syndrome, leading us to consider that the aneurysm might be atheromatous in origin. […] Our patient presented acute reduction of arterial perfusion due to the occlusion of arteriolar vessels by emboli arising from a mural thrombus in a popliteal artery aneurysm. Although relatively rare, popliteal artery aneurysm is the most common peripheral arterial aneurysm and it is associated with aneurysmal disease at other sites in up to 45% of patients.
  • #37 Blue Toe Sign as the Initial Manifestation of a Popliteal Artery Aneurysm | Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
    https://actasdermo.org/en-blue-toe-sign-as-initial-articulo-S1578219011000357
    The most feared complication of popliteal artery aneurysm is acute distal ischemia of the limb after a thrombotic event within the aneurysm. Such ischemia can affect the lower leg below the knee if the thrombus completely occludes the popliteal artery. However, if microemboli block distal arteries or arterioles, the condition will affect a more limited area of the limb, giving rise to blue toe syndrome and other changes. […] We present a patient with blue toe syndrome or, as we propose, blue toe sign caused by embolism from a popliteal artery aneurysm, an etiology rarely reported for this syndrome.
  • #38 Popliteal Artery Aneurysm | Symptoms And Causes
    https://frontiervascular.com/popliteal-artery-aneurysm-revealed/
    Cardiovascular complications: Popliteal artery aneurysms (PAA) are often associated with different cardiovascular sicknesses, together with atherosclerosis, which could increase the hazard of heart attack and stroke. […] Finally, you should know that dilation or bulge of arterial vessels specially located or occurring in the popliteal is very serious and you should seek our center for good management.
  • #39 Non-aortic aneurysms Natural history and recommendations for referral and treatment
    https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/june/non-aortic-aneurysms
    Aneurysms occurring in the arteries of the lower limb are the most common peripheral aneurysms. […] The majority (approximately 70%) of true lower extremity aneurysms are popliteal artery aneurysms, with an estimated incidence of 0.4% in hospitalised patients. […] Risk factors for developing a true femoropopliteal aneurysm are the same as those for developing an aortic aneurysm (ie. smoking, male gender, hypertension, family history). […] Popliteal aneurysms may manifest as an asymptomatic, pulsating mass behind the knee or cause symptoms of either chronic or acute ischaemia. […] The likelihood of symptoms developing in untreated patients is 34% at 3 years in asymptomatic patients with normal pedal pulses, but rises to 86% in asymptomatic patients with absent pulses. […] The primary objective of treatment is to exclude the aneurysm from the circulation, and an open approach with surgical bypass plus ligation of the aneurysm, or with an interposition graft, is currently still the treatment of choice. […] With the rise in endovascular techniques, endovascular popliteal artery repair (EPAR) has become a promising and widespread treatment option.