Below is an instruction from Human. Write a response.
    ### Instruction:
    What is (are) familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection ?
    ### Response:
    Familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (familial TAAD) involves problems with the aorta, which is the large blood vessel that distributes blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Familial TAAD affects the upper part of the aorta, near the heart.
    