Introduction:
Takayasu Arteritis (TA), a rare, chronic vasculitis primarily affecting
large vessels, is conventionally characterized by stenosis, occlusion,
or aneurysm formation in the aorta and its main branches (1).However,
emerging research and clinical observations have begun to shed light on
its less typical manifestations, presenting a more complex and diverse
spectrum of the disease than previously understood. This burgeoning
awareness is pivotal in broadening the diagnostic and therapeutic
approaches for TA (2).
Traditionally, TA has been identified through its classic symptoms:
pulselessness, vascular bruits, and differences in blood pressure
between limbs. Nonetheless, recent studies and case reports have
unveiled a range of atypical presentations (3). These unusual
manifestations often lead to diagnostic challenges, as they can mimic
other medical conditions and delay accurate recognition of TA. For
instance, patients might present with symptoms resembling neurological
disorders, renal impairments, or gastrointestinal complications, which
are not immediately identifiable as consequences of vascular
inflammation (3).
The significance of these unusual presentations lies not only in their
diagnostic challenge but also in their potential impact on the
management and prognosis of TA (4). The disease’s progression with
atypical symptoms may alter the traditional therapeutic strategies,
necessitating a more tailored and holistic approach. The complexity of
these manifestations requires a high index of suspicion and a
multidisciplinary approach involving rheumatologists, cardiologists,
neurologists, and other specialists, depending on the affected organ
systems (5).
This introduction aims to delve into these atypical presentations of
Takayasu Arteritis, exploring their clinical implications, challenges in
diagnosis, and impact on management strategies. Understanding these
unusual manifestations is crucial for clinicians to provide timely and
accurate diagnosis, preventing disease progression and improving patient
outcomes in this rare but impactful condition (5)