Takayasu Arteritis Presenting As Epileptic Seizure: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Immunology

Background:

• Takayasu arteritis is a rare, chronic inflammatory condition affecting large arteries.
• Its varied presentation and subtle early vascular lesions complicate diagnosis.
• Neurological manifestations, such as epileptic seizures, are infrequent but significant.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old female presented with an unusual neurological episode mimicking epileptic seizures.
• The patient experienced unresponsiveness, tonic stiffening, limb jerks, fatigue, and memory loss.
• This presentation was ultimately attributed to an acute phase of Takayasu arteritis.

Findings:

• The patient received high-dose glucocorticoid and immunosuppressive therapy during the acute phase.
• This treatment successfully controlled the underlying inflammatory process.
• The neurological symptoms resolved, and the patient showed significant clinical improvement.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering vasculitis in atypical neurological presentations.
• Demonstrates the efficacy of aggressive immunosuppressive therapy in managing Takayasu arteritis-related neurological events.
• Emphasizes the need for comprehensive diagnostic evaluation in complex cases.