Which artery is typically associated with the development of fusiform cerebral aneurysms?

Fusiform cerebral aneurysms are typically associated with the basilar artery. These aneurysms are characterized by a symmetrical, spindle-shaped dilation of the arterial wall, which can occur at the basilar artery, particularly where it bifurcates into the posterior cerebral arteries. The basilar artery supplies critical areas of the brain, and abnormalities in this region can lead to significant clinical consequences, including ischemia or hemorrhage.

While other arteries such as the internal carotid artery, vertebral artery, and cerebral arteries can indeed be involved in the formation of aneurysms, fusiform aneurysms are most readily associated with the basilar artery due to anatomical and hemodynamic factors that cause weakness in the artery wall, often related to atherosclerosis or other vascular conditions. In contrast, saccular aneurysms are typically more prevalent at branch points of the internal carotid artery and its major branches. Understanding this relationship helps in recognizing clinical presentations and planning appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with such vascular conditions.