Genetic Profile in Patients With Aortic Syndrome

The overall prevalence has increased significantly in the general population, which may be due in part to advances in diagnostic techniques, such as improved imaging techniques. Aortic dissection (AD) can cause sudden cardiac death (SCD). Approximately 95% of thoracic AAS are clinically "silent" until a life-threatening complication arises in an unpredictable manner and presents as sudden cardiac death. The peak incidence of death caused by aortic dissection occurs within 48 hours, therefore, timely diagnosis is essential and saves lives.

We have traditionally associated as risk factors in patients with ASA long-term arterial hypertension, present in 66-75% of cases, smoking, dyslipidemia or atherosclerotic disease. Likewise, any condition that alters the structure of the aorta such as: collagen diseases, aneurysms, bicuspid aorta, and manipulation of the thoracic aorta (cardiac surgery, 18%, or percutaneous intervention that can injure the intima) is involved in ASA. In addition to the well-known hereditary syndromes that affect collagen (Marfan, Elher-Danlos ...) there is a clear familial aggregation: 13-19% of patients without identifiable syndrome have first-degree relatives with thoracic aortic aneurysms or ICD, something that has been called "thoracic aortic dissection and familial aneurysm syndrome."

Notable achievements have been made in the discovery of genetic mutations associated with SAA and key regulatory molecules involved, including the extracellular matrix (ECM), cytoskeletal proteins, and the TGF-β signaling pathway. Identification of the causative gene is advantageous for both patients and their families, especially those who do not show symptoms. The specific underlying genotype could benefit the process of diagnosis, surveillance and surgery, with the aim of reducing morbidity and mortality