Insights into Pathogenesis of Takayasu’s Arteritis

Jason M Springer and Gary S

Abstract

Takayasu’s arteritis (TA) is an idiopathic large vessel inflammatory disease that predominantly affects young\r\nwomen. The pathology includes granulomatous changes. The inflammatory process favors the cervico-cranial\r\nvessels of the aortic arch, the thoracic more than the abdominal aorta and produces stenoses 4-5 times more often\r\nthan aneurysms (Figure 1) [1,2]. Wider global recognition of TA has led to questioning of the accuracy of the longaccepted demographic of an Asian stereotype and the notion that the illness follows a triphasic (systemic, vascular\r\ninflammatory and burned out) course. Larger aggregate data has also increased appreciation of persistent disease\r\nactivity, need for surgical remedies and a greater degree of disability than heretofore recognized. Recent insights into\r\npathogenesis have led to experimental trials of novel therapies. This review will explore these insights and resultant\r\nchanges in both medical and surgical interventions.