common clinical features of Takayasu Arteritis
A comprehensive vascular exam (BP, pulse, bruits) is mandatory as bruits (80%), decreased pulses (60%), and asymmetric BPs (50%) are common findings. Involvement of the subclavian (more commonly) and iliac arteries may lead to limb claudication (70%). Carotid and vertebral artery involvement may lead to presyncope (30%) or headache (40%). Pulmonary artery disease can occur in up to 70% of patients, with <25% having symptoms of pulmonary hypertension.
Cardiac involvement with angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, sudden death, and aortic valvular regurgitation occurs in up to 15% of patients. Hypertension (30%), arthralgias (50%), and constitutional symptoms (40%) are common. Due to arterial stenosis, blood pressures need to be taken in all four extremities.