Know the Facts
Takayasu Arteritis is a rare type of vasculitis that causes inflammation of the blood vessels, which can restrict blood flow and damage vital organs and tissues. It affects the aorta and its main branches. These branches carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the phase of the disease:
Systemic phase (when blood vessels become inflamed):
Chest pain, fatigue, fever, muscle aches /weakness, night sweats, tenderness above the affected arteries or joint pain
Occlusive phase (the blood vessels become narrow):
Cold or white hands or feet, cramping, a difference in blood pressure between arms and legs, vision problems, pain, nausea and vomiting or weak/absent pulse
Risk Factors
Female and Asian decent
Diagnosis
Physical exam, blood tests, MRA, CTA
Treatments
Goals of treatment includes controlling the inflammation of the blood vessels and preventing further damage. Anti-inflammatory medications are the first line of treatment. When aortic conditions become advanced, surgery to widen or repair narrowed arteries may be necessary.