Takayasu Arteritis: Review in Pediatrics

Abstract

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is classified as a large-vessel vasculitis, and it primarily affects the aorta and principal branches. The clinical presentation in pediatric patients is odd and there are few literature about it because of its low incidence and nonspecific clinical presentation. The standardized diagnosis of TA is by imaging support, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). When using CT, angio-CT is recommended because it will allow us to observe the caliber of the arteries, wall changes, and level of stenosis. The study should include the aortic arch, abdominal aorta, visceral branches, and iliac arteries taking into account that the mainly affected arteries are the left subclavian, abdominal aorta, right renal artery, and descending chest aorta. In the same way in the study, four imaging patterns of TA can be identified: variable decrease in the luminal diameter of the aorta and arteries, total occlusion, fusiform and saccular aneurysm, and irregular contour of the aortic wall. Identifying TA findings is important for early diagnosis, medical management, and proper monitoring specifically in pediatric patients where literature is little available.