New insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of Takayasu arteritis

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects the aorta and its primary branches. Initially described in young women from the Far East, it has become evident that TA is found worldwide, in both genders, and in a broader age range of patients than previously appreciated. Although the pathogenesis of TA remains unknown, current evidence suggests an autoimmune etiology. The immune response to pathogen exposure has been purported as a potential etiological factor, and current investigations continue to explore this hypothesized trigger of disease. Prior cohort studies document the relapsing, refractory nature of TA and the limitations of currently utilized therapies, although advances in immunosuppressive therapy may lead to better outcomes in patients with TA. Furthermore, newer diagnostic imaging modalities have provided a more comprehensive picture of this disease, and may aid in earlier diagnosis and better surveillance of disease activity and response to therapy.