Takayasu Arteritis
Takayasu arteritis (TA) is an inflammatory vessel disease that affects large arteries- especially the aorta- thereby disrupting blood flow throughout the body.
About Takayasu Arteritis
The aorta is your largest artery, tasked with transporting blood from the heart to other major arteries throughout your body. Takayasu arteritis is a form of vasculitis (inflammatory vessel disease) that affects the aorta and its branches, resulting in decreased blood supply to your organ systems. The cause of Takayasu is uncertain, but certain people may be genetically predisposed to the condition.
Symptoms of Takayasu Arteritis
Symptoms of Takayasu arteritis vary and result from bodily tissues not receiving adequate blood supply.
Symptoms of Takayasu arteritis may include:
- Bruit (vascular murmur)
- Difference in blood pressure across extremities (arms or legs)
- Fever
- Headache
- Hypertension
- Joint paint
Risk Factors for Takayasu Arteritis
While Takayasu arteritis affects young people regardless of background or sex, it is more common in certain populations.
Risk factors for Takayasu arteritis may include:
- Age: The condition typically affects people between the ages of 15 and 40.
- Family history: Takayasu arteritis is more prevalent in people of Asian descent.
- Sex: The condition is more common in female patients.
Treating Takayasu Arteritis at UT Medicine
Like all forms of vasculitis, corticosteroids like prednisone can be used to address the inflammation associated with Takayasu arteritis. Your physician may prescribe an immunosuppressant medication such as methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil. A biologic medication called infliximab may be used in severe cases.
