INTRACRANIAL ANEURYSMS

Intracranial aneurysm is a cerebrovascular disease characterized by local pathological enlargement of cerebral arteries. Many risk factors are involved in the pathogenesis, but the precise mechanisms underlying formation, progression, and rupture remain unclear. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, classification systems, and diagnostic management based on current evidence in literature. Special regard is dedicated to histological and angioarchitectural features, natural history, rupture predictor signs, and risk stratification for intracranial aneurysms. Clinical characteristics of subarachnoid hemorrhage and the best diagnostic techniques are presented in order to improve patient evaluation and choice of successful treatment strategy.