Takayasu's Arteritis with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report

Abstract

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare granulomatous vasculitis affecting the aorta and its major branches, while systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disorder known for vascular and serological involvement. Although both diseases share certain immunopathological pathways, their co-occurrence is exceedingly rare. We report a case of a 44-year-old Indian female with a prior diagnosis of SLE who presented with breathlessness, palpitations, and nodular episcleritis. Cardiovascular evaluation revealed carotid bruit, diminished peripheral pulses, blood pressure discrepancies, and murmurs suggestive of valvular dysfunction. Laboratory investigations demonstrated elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hypochromic microcytic anemia, hypocomplementemia, positive antinuclear and anti-dsDNA antibodies, and proteinuria. Imaging confirmed circumferential thickening of the ascending and descending aorta and occlusive disease in the left carotid system. Based on the 2022 ACR/EULAR classification criteria, a diagnosis of concomitant TA was established. Management included corticosteroids and mycophenolate mofetil, chosen over cyclophosphamide due to borderline renal function and fertility considerations. Despite planning for aortic root replacement, the patient deteriorated and succumbed to complications of severe aortic regurgitation. This case highlights the diagnostic complexities of overlapping autoimmune vasculitides and emphasizes the need for early recognition, rigorous application of classification criteria, and individualized immunosuppressive strategies to optimize outcomes in such rare presentations.

Keywords: Takayasu arteritis; aortitis; autoimmune disorders; case report; dual diagnosis; rare coexistence; systemic lupus erythematosus.

Figure 1.

Computerized tomography (CT) images showing intimal thickening in the arch of the aorta (A), circumferential intimal thickening in the descending aorta without significant luminal narrowing (B), and focal narrowing in the proximal left subclavian artery (C).

Figure 2.

Chronological timeline highlighting key events in the case.