Individuals age 50 and older who have had recent asthma-related health issues appear to be at an elevated risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a weak spot in the body’s main artery, which can rupture, causing massive bleeding. It’s speculated that a specific inflammation-related protein called IgE, which the body makes in response to allergens, contributes to the stiffening of arteries, and this stiffening can lead to a possible aneurysm. Due to the fact that an abdominal aortic aneurysm can rupture and be deadly, the researchers behind this finding recommend screening men 50 and older with asthma for aneurysms.
Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, February 2016