Differential Diagnosis for 0.4 x 0.3 cm Left Distal MCA Bifurcation Aneurysm
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Saccular aneurysm: This is the most common type of cerebral aneurysm and typically occurs at branch points in the arteries, such as the MCA bifurcation. The size and location of the aneurysm are consistent with a saccular aneurysm.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Mycotic aneurysm: Although less common, mycotic aneurysms can occur at any location, including the MCA bifurcation. These aneurysms are often associated with infectious diseases.
- Traumatic aneurysm: A history of trauma could suggest a traumatic aneurysm, which can occur at any location, including the MCA bifurcation.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Arteriovenous malformation (AVM): Although AVMs are typically larger and more complex than a small aneurysm, a small AVM could be mistaken for an aneurysm. Missing an AVM could have significant consequences due to the risk of hemorrhage.
- Vasculitis: Conditions like vasculitis can cause aneurysm-like lesions and are important to consider due to their potential for serious complications if left untreated.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Infectious aneurysm due to a specific organism (e.g., fungal aneurysm): These aneurysms are rare but can occur in immunocompromised patients or those with specific infections.
- Neoplastic aneurysm: Although extremely rare, aneurysms can be caused by neoplastic processes, such as metastatic disease or primary brain tumors.