I70-I79: Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries

I72: Other aneurysm and dissection

The group of conditions classified under "Other aneurysm and dissection" refers to abnormalities in blood vessels that occur in various parts of the body, excluding the brain and heart. An aneurysm is characterized by the widening or bulging of an artery due to weakness in the arterial wall. Dissections, on the other hand, involve a tear in the vessel wall, allowing blood to flow between the layers, which can lead to the vessel ballooning and potentially rupturing. The causes can vary, including genetic disorders related to connective tissue, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. Common symptoms include pain in the affected area, which varies depending on the location of the aneurysm or dissection, and can progress rapidly or over time. These conditions primarily affect the circulatory system and can lead to serious complications such as stroke, blood clots, or rupture, causing life-threatening internal bleeding.