Atmospheric pressure variations and abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture.

Authors :: Killeen SD
O'Sullivan MJ
Coffey JC
Redmond HP
Fulton GJ
Source :: Irish journal of medical science [Ir J Med Sci] 2008 Sep; Vol. 177 (3), pp. 217-20. Date of Electronic Publication: 2008 Jun 27.
Publication Year :: 2008
Abstract: Background: Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (RAAA) presents with increased frequency in the winter and spring months. Seasonal changes in atmospheric pressure mirrors this pattern.<br />Aim: To establish if there was a seasonal variation in the occurrence of RAAA and to determine if there was any association with atmospheric pressure changes.<br />Methods: A retrospective cohort-based study was performed. Daily atmospheric pressure readings for the region were obtained.<br />Results: There was a statistically significant monthly variation in RAAA presentation with 107 cases (52.5%) occurring from November to March. The monthly number of RAAA and the mean atmospheric pressure in the previous month were inversely related (r = -0.752, r (2) = 0.566, P = 0.03), and there was significantly greater daily atmospheric pressure variability on days when patients with RAAA were admitted.<br />Conclusion: These findings suggest a relationship between atmospheric pressure and RAAA.