Sarcoidosis, microvascular angina and aortitis: New dimensions of the 'Takayasu syndrome' -A case report

Abstract

A case of Takayasu aortitis associated with sarcoidosis presenting with recurrent angina is reported. This association has been called 'Takayasu syndrome', which reflects what is likely a shared etiology. Myocardial perfusion abnormalities have recently been documented in sarcoidosis, but this case clarifies for the first time that the angina in Takayasu syndrome is likely due to small vessel coronary arteritis. Corticosteroids and cytotoxic therapy have been shown to be beneficial in all forms of sarcoidosis related to vasculitis. Initiation of steroid therapy may provide relief of angina in patients with evidence of reversible ischemia in normal coronary arteries.