Takayasu's arteritis in western South Dakota

Takayasu's arteritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the large arteries. While most reported cases are from Latin America and the Orient, the disease has a worldwide distribution. Patients frequently complain of claudication, arthralgias and fatigue, and physical examination is remarkable for vascular bruits and pulse deficits. The diagnosis is established by angiography and a typical clinical presentation. Prednisone is adequate treatment in the majority of patients. Cyclophosphamide and vascular bypass surgery are reserved for more severe cases. Two cases identified in western South Dakota are presented followed by a detailed literature review.