MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Aortic arch syndrome

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Aortic arch syndrome

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names Definition Causes	Symptoms Treatment References

Illustrations

Heart, section through the middle

Alternative Names Return to top

Subclavian artery occlusive syndrome; Carotid artery occlusion syndrome; Subclavian steal syndrome; Vertebral-basilar artery occlusive syndrome

Definition Return to top

Aortic arch syndrome refers to a group of signs and symptoms associated with structural problems in the arteries that branch off the aortic arch. The aortic arch is the top part of the main artery carrying blood away from the heart.

Causes Return to top

Aortic arch syndrome problems are most often associated with trauma, blood clots, or malformations that develop before birth. The arteries' defects result in abnormal blood flow to the head, neck, or arms.

In children, there are multiple types of aortic arch syndromes, including:

Congenital absence of a branch of the aorta
Isolation of the subclavian arteries
Vascular rings

Symptoms Return to top

Symptoms vary according to the affected artery, but may include:

Neurological changes such as:
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Weakness
Blood pressure changes
Breathing problems
Numbness of an arm
Reduced pulse
Transient ischemic attacks

Treatment Return to top

Surgery is usually required to treat the underlying cause of aortic arch syndrome.

References Return to top

Diseases of the Heart, Pericardium, and Pulmonary Vasculature Bed. In: Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 8th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007: Chap. 61.

Update Date: 5/12/2008

Updated by: Larry A. Weinrauch, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and Private practice specializing in Cardiovascular Disease, Watertown, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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