Takayasu's arteritis

As the precise aetiology of Takayasu's arteritis and causes of flare-ups in disease activity are unknown, there are no known specific preventative actions. Management of hypertension is important to prevent further vascular damage. Attention to osteoporosis screening and management is crucial, given the need for glucocorticoid therapy. Patients require influenza and pneumococcal immunisations annually. Use of prophylactic antibiotic therapy to prevent Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is important, especially when the prednisolone (prednisone) dose is more than 20 mg daily. Atherosclerotic vascular disease can further complicate the vascular damage caused by Takayasu's arteritis; thus, control of other risk factors is important.