Takayasu arteritis

Abstract

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to summarize the recent advances in Takayasu arteritis (TAK), mainly focusing on pathogenesis, imaging modalities, and management.

Recent findings: Three novel clusters based on angiographic findings were identified in the Indian cohort and replicated in the North American cohorts. Different new imaging modalities have been tried in the assessment of arterial inflammation with promising results. There is more evidence on the long-term use of tocilizumab, but relapses are common. In light of the recent findings on the pathogenesis of TAK, Janus kinase inhibitors seem to be promising.

Summary: Improvement in imaging modalities and in our understanding of the disease pathogenesis will allow us to better assess the disease activity and identify effective therapeutic agents.