Risk of Rupture of an Intracranial Aneurysm Based on Patient Characteristics

Smoking, migraine and, inversely, hypercholesterolemia are independent risk factors for aneurysmal rupture. Data from the questionnaire are insufficient to conclude whether hypercholesterolemia or its treatment with statins exerts a risk-reducing effect. The pathophysiological mechanisms through which smoking and migraine increase the risk of aneurysmal rupture should be investigated in further studies. Although a history of hypertension does not increase risk of rupture, a sudden rise in blood pressure might still trigger aneurysmal rupture.