Sex and Gender Differences in Aortic Disease

Abstract

Dilatation of the thoracic or abdominal aorta can progress to dissection or rupture with significant associated morbidity and mortality. Aortic disease remains a treatable contributor to mortality in the US and its burden is likely underestimated. Recent clinical studies have uncovered sex and gender distinctions in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and outcomes of aortic disease. Despite this, there has been little progress in the application of these findings to clinical practice. Improved understanding of the sex-specific mechanisms of aortic disease may inform personalized indications for elective repair and thus reduce the morbidity of aortic catastrophe. The objective of this review is to summarize known clinical and biological sex differences in both thoracic and abdominal aortic disease and highlight promising areas for future investigation.