Takayasu Arteritis diagnosed during puerperium in a woman with pregnancy-induced hypertension: Case report

Abstract

AIMS: To describe a case of Takayasu arteritis diagnosed during the early postpartum period, demonstrating the importance of proper blood pressure measurement for the diagnosis of gestational hypertension. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 40 year old woman in her fourth pregnancy, with gestational age of 36 weeks and three days, was hospitalized for high-risk pregnancy due to chronic hypertension. During hospitalization, difference in blood pressure levels and pulse asymmetry between the upper limbs were observed. In the postpartum the patient underwent carotid Doppler ultrasound, which showed occlusion of the left common carotid artery and left subclavian artery, leading to the diagnosis of Takayasu arteritis. CONCLUSIONS: Early diagnosis of Takayasu arteritis is difficult because initial manifestations are nonspecific and symptoms are mild. However, a careful physical examination may reveal signs that raise suspicion and warrant further investigation, which may prevent a negative outcome, especially during pregnancy.