Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Chronic inflammation in the abdominal aortic wall attracts immune cells, leading to the release of proteases that degrade essential structural proteins such as elastin and collagen. Concurrently, smooth-muscle cells within the wall become dysfunctional or undergo apoptosis, resulting in remodeling that diminishes the wall's capacity to withstand pressure. This pathological process is further exacerbated by smoking and hypertension; smoking intensifies inflammatory and proteolytic damage, while elevated blood pressure increases the mechanical stress on the weakened vessel wall.