Takayasu Arteritis with Concurrent Cushing’s Syndrome: A Case Report

Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is a rare autoimmune condition, often called pulseless disease, characterized by chronic inflammation of the aorta and its major branches. The exact cause remains unknown, but it is classified as large-vessel vasculitis. The condition can result in ischemic symptoms, organ damage, and complications due to reduced blood flow. TAK can indeed lead to stenosis of arterial walls, which may weaken and lead to aneurysms, high blood pressure, and eventually heart failure or stroke. Treatment primarily involves immunosuppressive therapy, with corticosteroids playing a central role, although glucocorticoid-sparing agents such as methotrexate and biologics like TNF inhibitors are becoming more commonly utilized. This case discusses a 26-year-old female diagnosed with TAK who developed subsequent iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome as a major complication from extended corticosteroid use. CT angiography confirmed the presence of Takayasu arteritis along with an uncommon finding of bilateral renal artery stenosis. The complexities of managing Takayasu arteritis (TAK) are heightened in patients who also have concurrent metabolic disorders like Cushing's syndrome. This situation necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to ensure effective treatment and achieve optimal clinical outcomes Key words: Autoimmune disease, Iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome, Glucocorticoid-sparing agents, Large-vessel vasculitis, Renal artery stenosis, Takayasu arteritis.