YOSH AYOLDA TAKAYASU ARTERITINING ATIPIK KECHISHI VA KARDIOLOGIK ASORATLARI

Abstract

Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is a rare, chronic granulomatous vasculitis affecting the aorta and its major branches. It predominantly occurs in young women, but early symptoms are often nonspecific and may delay diagnosis until irreversible vascular damage or cardiovascular complications develop. This narrative review discusses atypical clinical presentations of Takayasu arteritis in young women, with emphasis on cardiac and aortic complications, diagnostic imaging, differential diagnosis, and treatment principles. Cardiovascular manifestations may include renovascular hypertension, aortic regurgitation due to aortic root involvement, aortic dilatation or aneurysm, coronary ostial stenosis, myocardial ischemia, and heart failure. Diagnosis requires integration of clinical findings, blood pressure and pulse assessment in all limbs, inflammatory markers, and vascular imaging. Magnetic resonance angiography and computed tomography angiography are central to evaluating the aorta and its branches, while echocardiography is important for assessing valvular disease, ventricular function, and aortic root abnormalities. Treatment generally combines glucocorticoids with conventional immunosuppressive agents; biologic therapy may be considered in refractory or relapsing disease. Revascularization or cardiac surgery may be necessary for selected patients with critical ischemia, severe valve disease, or aneurysmal complications, preferably when inflammation is controlled unless urgent intervention is required. Early recognition and multidisciplinary care are essential to reduce preventable cardiovascular morbidity.