Aortic Disease & Genetics
Hoag’s Aortic Center also looks closely at how genetics could affect
a person’s risk for aortic aneurysm. The Center offers genetic counseling
and testing, through a certified genetic counselor and a board-certified
Geneticist, Valentina Dalili-Shoaie, M.D.
“We know that genetics is an important predisposing risk factor for
the development of aortic aneurysms, so by looking at potential genetic
susceptibility, we can better risk stratify patients and their family
members who may need a management plan,” said Valentina Dalili-Shoaie,
M.D. Dr. Dalilli is a Medical Geneticist with a background in Internal
Medicine who serves as the Medical Director of Genetics for Hoag Family
Cancer Institute.
Certain genetic syndromes that affect connective tissue, including Marfan
syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome vascular type and
Turner syndrome, can greatly increase the risk of developing an aortic
aneurysm. Some individuals may have a predisposition to develop an aortic
aneurysm and/or dissection even without having one of the genetic syndromes.
For additional information on risks, signs and symptoms, feel free to visit
community resource
The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health.