What is the cause of a Charcot-Bouchard Aneurysm?

A Charcot-Bouchard aneurysm is specifically associated with chronic hypertension, making hypertension the primary cause of this type of aneurysm. These small microaneurysms typically develop on the small penetrating arteries of the brain, which are susceptible to damage due to sustained high blood pressure. Over time, the walls of these blood vessels can weaken, leading to microaneurysms that are prone to rupture and can result in hemorrhagic strokes.

While trauma, genetic factors, and infectious agents can be involved in other vascular conditions or aneurysms, they are not directly implicated in the formation of Charcot-Bouchard aneurysms. The pivotal role of hypertension in this context highlights the significance of managing blood pressure to reduce the risk of such vascular complications.