PTX3 and achalasia-alacrima syndrome: In order to improve insights into vessel wall alterations in AAAs, we compared the expression of structural proteins, osteoprotegerin, and pentraxin 3 and the presence of immune factors (T and B lymphocytes, neutrophils and macrophages), microvessels and hypoxic cells in AAA and non-aneurysmal aortic walls and to explore their relationships.