Reasons for aortic dilation

Two months ago, I was in a car accident.  When taken to the ER, I was given a CT scan of my left side.  I had a fractured collar bone and a fractured rib on the left side.  I was bruised from my neck to my hip. I had a seat belt on, but the impact was so hard it almost broke my neck.  It was discovered that I had a dilated aorta approximately 4.3.  My doctor referred me to a cardiologist, and he sent me for another CT scan about two weeks ago.  It was again discovered that my aorta was dilated.   My question is, can an impact from an MVA cause this?  If not, what could cause a dilated aorta?  I had no clue until the CT in the ER.  

My cardiologist said he will monitor this conidtion every six months.  I am relatively healthy with no major diseases or illnesses.  I am 65 years old and have never had HTN.  I have been a scuba diver for many years and kept in shape.

I would like some suggestions please.  I know that no one can diagnose anything by reading this, but I am a little depressed over this condition. Thank you.


This discussion is related to dilated aorta.

[kenkeith]

For some insight, the permanent enlargement of some portion of a blood vessel (aorta) is often described as bulging, ballooning or dilated. The diameter of the enlargement will determine whether or not it is considered an aneurysm. Traditionally for the aorta, any permanently dilated section measuring 4.0 cm or greater in diameter has been called an aneurysm.

The definition of an aneurysm may also be based on comparison with the normal blood vessel size for an individual. When the permanent enlargement of some part of a blood vessel is at least 1.5 times greater than normal size, it may be termed an aneurysm. Applying this to the aorta, if an individual's normal aorta is 2.5 cm, then dilation of 3.75 cm or greater represents an aneurysm in that person. A variation of this defines an aneurysm when the enlarged aorta is at least twice its normal size.

Whether the aorta is called "dilated" or the word "aneurysm" is used, any enlargement of the aorta, regardless of its size, is an indication of aortic disease and requires treatment. Aortic enlargement, although perhaps not yet qualified for the term aneurysm, should be monitored, treated medically, and the lifestyle and diet of the patient addressed.

cause can be:

Bicuspid aortic disease
Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Other connective tissue disorders (Marfanoid)
Atherosclerosis
Miscellaneous infectious and inflammatory conditions
Hypertension
Smoking
Trauma

Listed as a possible cause is trauma, so MVA can't be ruled out.