Takayasu arteritis
Pronunciation: tah-kah-YAH-soo
Large-vessel vasculitis affecting the aorta and its primary branches, predominantly in young Asian women.
Full Definition
Takayasu arteritis is a chronic, granulomatous vasculitis affecting large vessels, primarily the aorta and its major branches including the carotid, subclavian, and renal arteries. The condition predominantly affects women under 40 years of age, with higher prevalence in Asian populations. The inflammatory process leads to vessel wall thickening, stenosis, occlusion, or aneurysm formation. Clinical presentation varies by affected vessels and may include arm claudication, visual disturbances, hypertension, or constitutional symptoms. The disease progresses through active inflammatory and fibrotic phases, with treatment focused on immunosuppression during active phases.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Mikito Takayasu; capitalize the eponym. Also historically called 'pulseless disease.'
In Context
- "The young woman's bilateral arm claudication was attributed to Takayasu arteritis affecting the subclavian arteries." — Clinical diagnosis
- "PET imaging showed active inflammation consistent with Takayasu arteritis in the aortic arch vessels." — Imaging report