Takayasu syndrome, about a case

Abstract

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare idiopathic vasculitis that primarily affects young women, characterized by phenotypic variations and inconsistent diagnostic criteria. Epidemiological studies report a prevalence of 24.4 per million in Asian and African populations, and lower rates in Northern Europeans, higher than previously reported data. In children, prevalence increases with age, with a variable female-to-male ratio depending on the region. Diagnosis is often delayed by up to 17 months due to its nonspecific presentation. Clinically, hypertension is the predominant symptom, along with headache, fever, and dyspnea. Inflammatory markers such as ESR, CRP, and cytokines are used for monitoring, but they lack specific sensitivity. Imaging, particularly magnetic resonance angiography, is essential for evaluating vascular damage, with stenosis and mural thickening being the most common findings in large arteries. In children, diagnostic criteria adapted from adults, such as those by EULAR/PRINTO/PRES, show high sensitivity, although validation is limited. Disease activity assessment is complex; tools like PAVP or ITAS 2010 are useful but insufficient for comprehensive pediatric evaluation. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent irreversible damage.