Aneurysms are most often caused by which of the following?

Aneurysms are most often associated with atherosclerosis, which is a condition involving the buildup of fatty deposits in the arterial walls that can weaken them over time. This weakening makes the vessel susceptible to dilation, ultimately leading to the formation of an aneurysm.

While congenital arterial wall weakness certainly can lead to aneurysms, it is less common compared to instances caused by atherosclerosis. Many factors contribute to the development of aneurysms, but atherosclerosis remains the primary cause due to its high prevalence in the population and its direct impact on vascular health.

Trauma may lead to aneurysms, but it typically causes specific types of injury that can lead to vascular compromise rather than the chronic formation of an aneurysm seen with atherosclerosis. Similarly, chronic infection can complicate vascular health and lead to aneurysms, but it is not a common cause compared to atherosclerotic changes in the arterial wall.

Understanding the mechanics of how atherosclerosis affects the arteries provides insight into why this choice is the most relevant in the context of aneurysm formation.