Takayasu's disease: a review

Oliver R. Tann, Robert M.R. Tulloh, Mark C.K. Hamilton
2008 Cardiology in the Young  
Takayasu's disease is a rare chronic vasculitis of unknown aetiology. Initial symptoms and signs are non-specific, and a high index of suspicion is needed to make the correct diagnosis. The disease is associated with a high incidence of morbidity, and a significant risk of premature death. Serological tests have proved unreliable in distinguishing active from quiescent disease, with non-invasive imaging currently offering the best option for early diagnosis, and monitoring the response to
more » ... ent. In this review, we detail the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, imaging characteristics, and currently available treatments.
doi:10.1017/s1047951108002060 pmid:18325145 fatcat:htxnlgv5xrfr5figy7bpvslmg4