What Is a Brain Aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm (cerebral aneurysm) is a localized weakness in the wall of a brain artery that causes the vessel to bulge or balloon outward. This weakened area can remain stable for years, but it also carries the risk of rupture, which can lead to a life-threatening hemorrhagic stroke.
When an aneurysm ruptures, blood leaks into the brain or surrounding spaces, increasing pressure on brain tissue and potentially causing permanent neurological damage or death if not treated immediately. Because of this risk, early detection and expert neurosurgical management are essential.
At WEGOVITA, international patients are referred to Germany’s leading neurosurgical and neurovascular centers, where highly specialized teams provide precise diagnosis and advanced treatment options for brain aneurysms, including microsurgical clipping and minimally invasive endovascular procedures.
Types of Brain Aneurysms
Saccular (Berry) Aneurysm
A saccular or “berry” aneurysm is the most common type of brain aneurysm. It appears as a round, pouch-like bulge on one side of an artery wall, typically occurring at arterial bifurcations where blood flow pressure is higher. These aneurysms are the most likely to rupture and cause subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Fusiform Aneurysm
A fusiform aneurysm involves a more diffuse, spindle-shaped widening of the entire artery wall rather than a single bulge. It is often associated with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and is more complex to treat surgically.
Mycotic Aneurysm
A mycotic aneurysm develops as a result of infection in the arterial wall. The infection weakens the blood vessel, leading to dilation and potential rupture. These aneurysms are rare but require urgent medical and surgical management.
Giant Aneurysm
A giant aneurysm is typically defined as being larger than 25 mm in diameter. Due to their size, these aneurysms carry a high risk of rupture and can also compress nearby brain structures, causing neurological symptoms even before rupture occurs.
Causes and Risk Factors of Brain Aneurysms
Brain aneurysms often develop due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors that weaken arterial walls over time.
Common risk factors include:
Although aneurysms can occur at any age, they are more frequently diagnosed in adults between 35 and 60 years old.
Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm
Most unruptured aneurysms do not cause symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may indicate growth or pressure on surrounding brain structures.
Symptoms of an Unruptured Aneurysm
Symptoms of a Ruptured Aneurysm (Medical Emergency)
Immediate neurosurgical intervention is critical to survival and recovery.
