Clinical analysis of Takayasu's arteritis with cardiomyopathy

Abstract

The clinical data of 13 patients diagnosed as Takayasu's arteritis with cardiomyopathy in Peking Union Hospital were reviewed. Echocardiography showed cardiomegaly (left chambers mainly), diffuse weakened myocardial wall movement and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Dilated cardiomyopathy was diagnosed in two patients. Glucocorticoid and cyclophosphamide were the essential medication for treatment. One patient died, 1 patient was aggravated and the disease condition in remaining 11 patients was stable or improved. Takayasu's arteritis with cardiomyopathy is a rare disease and it attacks younger people. It is difficult to identify at onset, and the disease deteriorates rapidly. Echocardiography should be performed earlier to evaluate the heart function for early diagnosis and treatment. Administration of large dose of glucocorticoid and cyclophosphamide at early stage may improve the prognosis. Key words: Takayasu's arteritis; Cardiomyopathies