DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Rare Disease

Takayasu Arteritis

HIGH SEVERITY

A rare form of vasculitis affecting the large arteries, particularly the aorta and its main branches. Causes inflammation that damages arteries, leading to narrowing, blockage, or aneurysm formation. Affects mainly young women. Called 'pulseless disease'.

Global Affected

200.0K

Countries

20

Symptoms

Fatigue
Weight loss
Low-grade fever
Night sweats
Muscle pain
Absent/weak pulse
Blood pressure difference between arms
Dizziness
Fainting
Visual disturbances

Treatment Options

Corticosteroids
Methotrexate
Azathioprine
Tocilizumab
Rituximab
Mycophenolate
Cyclophosphamide (severe)
Angioplasty
Stenting
Bypass surgery

Risk Factors

1Female gender
2Age (15-40)
3Asian ancestry
4Genetic factors
5Autoimmune associations

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Physical examination (pulse deficit)
  • 2Blood tests (ESR, CRP)
  • 3CT angiography
  • 4MRI/MRA
  • 5PET scan
  • 6Angiography
  • 7Doppler ultrasound

Prognosis

Variable. 5-year survival >90% with treatment. Relapses common. Vascular complications significant. Hypertension management crucial. Pregnancy high-risk. Lifelong monitoring required.

Prevention

  • No known prevention
  • Early diagnosis
  • Adequate treatment of inflammation
  • Blood pressure control
  • Smoking cessation

Research Status

Corticosteroids first-line. Immunosuppressants (methotrexate, azathioprine) for maintenance. Biologics (tocilizumab, rituximab) increasingly used. Vascular interventions for stenosis. Early diagnosis crucial to prevent complications.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanSouth KoreaChinaIndiaTurkeyMexicoBrazilSwedenNetherlandsNorwayFinlandDenmark

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/takayasus-arteritis
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.