Pathophysiology/Etiology/Risk Factors Popliteal aneurysms are swelling of an artery. This development is thought to be caused by atherosclerosis, hypertension, and repeated stress on the area. Smoking is the leading cause of atherosclerosis, but atherosclerosis can also be caused hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipidemia. Hypertension applies undue pressure on the arterial walls. Doctors Magee R. Quigley F., McCann M., Buuner P., and Golledge J. published an article in 2010 that stated that …show more content…
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) and atherosclerosis may be present. The presenting signs and symptoms of leg and foot pain, tingling, and numbness can be caused by both PAD and atherosclerosis. History and physical can also point to a diagnosis or suspicion of popliteal aneurysm. Palpation of the popliteal area may reveal a pulsital mass. This finding would be indicative of a ruptured popliteal aneurysm or an asymptomatic popliteal aneurysm. Palpation of decreased or absent dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses can be a good indicator of atherosclerosis or thrombosis. These diagnoses can be narrowed down by a simple computerized tomography and