A case of Takayasu arteritis presenting with renovascular hypertension

Abstract

Takayasu arteritis (TA) that affects aorta and large vessels is rare rheumatological disease. In patients with Takayasu arteritis, hypertension is an important symptom which occurs as a result of narrowing of renal arteries and/or aorta. A 14-years-old girl was referred with facial flashing and tenderness on her face. Hypertension was found in upper limbs. Femoral pulses were weak and there was an abdominal murmur. On MR angiography, there was occlusion in aorta and renal arteries. The patient was diagnosed as TA, with increased acute phase reactants. After an antiinflammatory, an antihypertensive and immunsuppresive treatment, patient's clinical complaints and laboratory findings were under control. In this case, we want to emphasize the importance of blood pressure measurement and four limb pulse examination in childhood in routine physical assesment. In differential diagnosis of secondary hypertension, TA should be kept in mind.