Aneurysmatic disease in patients with Takayasu disease: a case review.

Takayasu disease is a non-specific inflammatory disease of the arterial system. Although various etiopathogenetic hypotheses have been formulated, its etiology remains unknown. The aorta and its main branches are predominantly involved in the disease, which is a form of panarteritis, starting with inflammation of the adventitia followed by involvement of the media and intima. It has been more frequently described in young oriental female patients. However, a worldwide distribution is being recognized. Arterial stenosis represents the most frequently diagnosed manifestation. Progression of the flogistic process may lead to stenosis of the aorta and supraaortic vessels, compromising arterial circulation to the brain and upper limbs. Aneurysm presentation may also rarely occur. Based on a recently treated case, the authors report on the clinical presentation, concomitant inflammatory diseases, current diagnostic methods, and management of this disease.