Takayasu Arteritis with Fistulizing Crohn's Disease: A Rare Presentation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Rheumatology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic GI inflammatory disorder.
• Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a chronic inflammatory arteriopathy affecting the aorta.
• Both CD and TA are granulomatous disorders, suggesting a potential link.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of simultaneous CD and TA.
• To highlight a unique presentation of enteroenteric fistula and subclavian artery occlusion.
• To emphasize the importance of considering the association between CD and TA.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a young female patient.
• Clinical presentation review including GI and vascular symptoms.
• Management approach with IV antibiotics, fluids, and steroids.

Main Results:

• Simultaneous diagnosis of CD and TA.
• Presence of a large enteroenteric fistula between the colon and jejunum.
• Total occlusion of both subclavian arteries with collateral formation.

Conclusions:

• The simultaneous occurrence of CD and TA is rare but documented.
• This case underscores the importance of recognizing the potential association between these two granulomatous diseases.
• Clinicians should consider both conditions in patients presenting with overlapping GI and vascular manifestations.