Takayasu arteritis in Korean children: clinical report of seventy cases

C Y Hong1, Y S Yun, J Y Choi

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University, Korea.

Heart and Vessels. Supplement
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Takayasu arteritis in Korean children predominantly affects females and often presents with hypertension and heart failure. Early medical and surgical interventions are crucial for managing this rare pediatric vasculitis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Vasculitis Research

Background:

  • Takayasu arteritis is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease affecting large arteries, primarily the aorta and its branches.
  • While typically affecting young women, its presentation and characteristics in pediatric populations, particularly in Korea, require specific investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and epidemiological features of Takayasu arteritis in a cohort of Korean children.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of medical and interventional treatments in this pediatric patient group.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 70 pediatric cases of Takayasu arteritis diagnosed in Korea.
  • Review of patient demographics, clinical presentations, diagnostic findings (including tuberculin reaction and ESR), and treatment modalities (corticosteroids, surgery, angioplasty).

Main Results:

  • The study identified 70 cases, predominantly in females (57/70), with a mean age at presentation suggesting early-onset disease.
  • Hypertension (92.8%) and congestive heart failure were the most common initial complaints, linked to involvement of the aorta and renal arteries.
  • A higher frequency and intensity of positive tuberculin reactions were observed compared to the general population.
  • Corticosteroids, surgery, and percutaneous intraluminal angioplasty were employed, with varying degrees of success and complications like restenosis.

Conclusions:

  • Takayasu arteritis in Korean children is characterized by a strong female predominance and significant cardiovascular manifestations, including severe hypertension.
  • The findings suggest a potential link with tuberculosis and highlight the need for prompt management with corticosteroids and consideration of surgical or interventional procedures.
  • While angioplasty showed promise in blood pressure reduction, restenosis remains a concern, necessitating further research into long-term treatment strategies.

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