What term describes a weakened, ballooned, and enlarged area in the wall of the abdominal aorta?

• A. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
• B. Anemia
• C. Hemophilia
• D. Renal Calculi

Answer: (A)

A weakened, ballooned, and enlarged area in the wall of the abdominal aorta is called an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. This happens when the vessel wall loses strength and stretches outward, forming a bulge that can grow over time. The danger is that the aneurysm can rupture, causing life‑threatening internal bleeding. Many are asymptomatic until rupture, but some people may notice back or abdominal pain or a pulsatile feeling in the abdomen. In EMS, the focus is rapid transport to definitive care, keeping the patient stable with good IV access and oxygen as needed, monitoring vital signs, and avoiding aggressive abdominal palpation. Diagnosis is typically via ultrasound or CT scan, and treatment usually involves surgical repair or endovascular aneurysm repair. The other listed conditions are unrelated to dilation of the abdominal aorta.