Vasculitis de gran vaso

Abstract

Large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) includes giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu's arteritis (TA), autoimmune inflammatory diseases that affect large caliber arteries. GCA is more common in adults older than 50 years of age, with manifestations such as headache, jaw claudication, and vision loss, whereas TA predominantly affects young women, with nonspecific initial symptoms followed by severe vascular involvement. The diagnosis of both conditions is based on clinical criteria, laboratory tests, and advanced imaging studies such as Doppler ultrasound, positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (PET-CT), and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). The principle treatment is glucocorticoids, with immunosuppressive and biologic therapies as steroid-sparing options. Early, appropriate management is essential to prevent serious complications such as stroke, heart failure, and ocular ischemia.