Radiologic Imaging in Large and Medium Vessel Vasculitis

Abstract

Vasculitides are a complex group of diseases sharing the defining feature of inflamed vessel walls. Vasculitides can be classified depending on the size of the predominantly affected vessels. Modern cross-sectional imaging methods have become a cornerstone in the diagnosis of vasculitis and may help in narrowing down differential diagnoses. This review presents the most important imaging modalities and typical findings in large and medium size vasculitis, implementing current imaging recommendations.

Keywords: Computed tomography; Giant cell arteritis; Large vessel vasculitis; MRA; Magnetic resonance imaging; PET/CT; Takayasu’s arteritis; Vasculitis.