Takayasu arteritis is inflammation of aorta and its main branches. Aortic arch and its branches are the most commonly affected. It often affects young women. The peak incidence age is 20 years old. Incidence is less common after 40 years old. The disease can lead to artery narrowing or obstruction, or abnormal blood vessel dilation. The main cause of death is brain hemorrhage and renal failure. Vascular lesions are chronic and progressive. If the condition is stable then prognosis is good. Prognosis depends largely on the degree of high blood pressure and cerebral blood supply. Early and timely use of glucocorticoid and immunosuppressant can improve the prognosis.
How is Takayasu's arteritis treated in practice?