What condition is characterized by weakening of the arterial wall?

The condition characterized by the weakening of the arterial wall is cystic medial necrosis. This pathological process involves degeneration of the elastic fibers and smooth muscle cells within the medial layer of the artery wall, leading to a decrease in structural integrity. As the medial layer deteriorates, the arterial wall becomes less resilient, which can predispose it to aneurysm formation.

Cystic medial necrosis is often associated with conditions like Marfan syndrome and can occur congenitally or due to age-related changes. The weakening of the arterial wall is a crucial factor, as it underlies the potential for anomalies such as dissecting aneurysms, which can have significant clinical implications.

Understanding this condition helps in recognizing the broader context of vascular issues, making it essential in the study of arteriosclerosis and aneurysms, as both can ultimately arise from or be exacerbated by prior structural defects in the arterial wall.