Large vessel vasculitis is a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of major arteries, such as the aorta and its main branches, leading to vessel wall thickening, stenosis, or aneurysm formation. The two primary types are giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis, each with distinct demographic and clinical features but often requiring similar immunosuppressive treatments.

Large Vessel Vasculitis

Group of disorders

Inflammation of major arteries

The aorta

Main branches

Vessel wall thickening

Stenosis refers to the abnormal narrowing of a bodily passage or vessel, which can lead to restricted blood flow or other complications depending on the location. It is often caused by factors such as inflammation, plaque buildup, or congenital defects, and can result in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health issues.

Stenosis

An aneurysm is a localized, blood-filled balloon-like bulge in the wall of a blood vessel, often occurring in arteries at the base of the brain or in the aorta. Risk factors include hypertension, smoking, and genetic predisposition, and if left untreated, an aneurysm can rupture, leading to life-threatening hemorrhage.

Aneurysm Formation

Giant cell arteritis is an inflammatory disease of the blood vessels, most commonly affecting the large and medium arteries of the head, particularly the temporal arteries. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as vision loss, making it a medical emergency in suspected cases.

Giant Cell Arteritis

Takayasu arteritis is a rare, chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the aorta and its major branches, leading to stenosis, occlusion, or aneurysms. It predominantly occurs in young women of Asian descent and can cause symptoms like diminished pulses, hypertension, and organ ischemia due to impaired blood flow.

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