An Interesting Case of Takayasu’s Arteritis with an Atypical Presentation in an Adolescent Asian Girl

Abstract

Introduction: Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a chronic non-specific inflammatory disease mainly affecting the medium and large arteries and is a common cause of renovascular hypertension among young Asian females. The initial symptoms and signs vary due to the heterogeneity of affected vessels. Case Presentation: Here we reporting a case of a rare disease in a 15 years old female presenting with abdominal distension, swelling over feet, facial puffiness lasting 1 month after which she was transferred to our hospital for further treatment. Blood Pressure showed significant discrepancy in upper limb and lower limb. Her laboratory results showed an elevated C-reactive protein and D-dimer. Also Color Doppler ultrasound and Computed Tomography Aortography (CTA) leading to diagnosis of TA, after which we started the patient on medical treatment and cardiological intervention. Vasculitis-induced renovascular secondary hypertension resulted in myocardial dysfunction, which recovered with treatment of hypertension and TA. Delayed diagnosis and lack of specific treatment could explain the extent and the clinical severity of the disease at time of hospital admission. Conclusion: Takayasu arteritis is a relatively rare disease with various clinical manifestations, such as ascities, anasarca as in our case. Currently, there are multiple diagnostic tools and treatment options available, and more under investigation. Early, appropriate diagnosis and initiation of proper therapy could avoid further progression and reduce complications of the disease. Hence early diagnosis and treatment is warranted