Evaluation of an abdominal aortic aneurysm begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with an abdominal aortic aneurysm may include:

• Abdominal tenderness
• A pulsating mass in the abdomen (in time with the heartbeat)
• Abdominal swelling
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate (over 100 beats per minute at rest)
• The pulses in the groin or legs may be diminished or absent.

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Tests that may be used to evaluate an abdominal aortic aneurysm include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile
• Liver profile
• Chest x-ray
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Abdominal CT scanning
• Abdominal x-ray (rarely may show calcified aneurysm)
• Angiography
• MRI scan of the abdomen