The significance of the extracellular matrix in intracranial aneurysms.

To what extent might change sin the extracellular matrix proteins in intracranial aneurysms (IA) or parent artery (PA) wall contribute to enlargement? Using IA specimens obtained from the coroner's office, the wall structure by light (Trichrome and Actin stains) and immunofluorescent microscopy (IF) (collagen I and fibronectin) have been studied in 18 specimens. It is well known that IA only arise when there is a deficiency in the internal elastic membrane and some breakdown in the media. The results show a normal three layer structure of intima, media, (muscularis), and adventitia in the PA extending out into the neck of the aneurysm. Immunofluorescent stains (IS) show collagen I and fibronectin limited to the adventitia and muscularis, respectively, of the PA and control arteries. The enlarging IA wall shows almost complete loss of this architecture. By IF stain, collagen I and fibronectin are intermingled throughout the IA wall. It is postulated that loss of structure and the confining muscularis layer permit easier elastic enlargement from a more or less homogeneous wall structure.