Familial thoracic aortic aneurysm(FTAA)
Also known as: Thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection · TAAD · Familiäres thorakales Aortenaneurysma · Aortenaneurysma
Overview
What it is
This is a genetic condition affecting the cardiovascular system, specifically the aorta, which is the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the body. Over time, the walls of this major blood vessel weaken and stretch, creating a bulge known as an aneurysm. If left unmanaged, this weakening can lead to a critical tear or rupture of the artery wall.
How it presents
Affected dogs typically show no outward signs for years, with symptoms usually appearing in young to middle-aged dogs. When signs do occur, they can include sudden weakness, breathing difficulties, or collapse.
Treatment
There is no cure, so management is lifelong and focuses on blood pressure-lowering medications and regular heart ultrasounds (echocardiography) to monitor the artery. This ongoing care and diagnostic monitoring typically costs between 1,000 and 5,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie)(Herz-Echo)
Primary testCardiac examEchokardiographie zur Beurteilung von Herzklappen, -wänden, -funktion. Pflicht z.B. bei Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (MMVD).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Familial thoracic aortic aneurysm?
This is a genetic condition affecting the cardiovascular system, specifically the aorta, which is the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the body. Over time, the walls of this major blood vessel weaken and stretch, creating a bulge known as an aneurysm. If left unmanaged, this weakening can lead to a critical tear or rupture of the artery wall.
How is Familial thoracic aortic aneurysm tested?
Tests currently in our database: Herzultraschall (Echokardiographie).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.