Pulse wave velocity, carotid intima media thickness and flow-mediated dilation in Takayasu arteritis: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION: Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a chronic vasculitis associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The measurement of pulse wave velocity (PWV), carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) are generally used for evaluating the cardiovascular risk. The application of these measurements to TA patients remains undetermined. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Clinical studies that reported the PWV, CIMT and FMD levels in TA patients, which were published prior to 2021, were summarized using PubMed. RESULTS: Fifteen studies were eligible. Overall, in TA patients, the PWV and CIMT levels were significantly higher and the FMD levels were significantly lower compared to controls. Part of the studies showed that the disease activity of TA was significantly associated with the PWV, CIMT or FMD levels. CONCLUSIONS: The PWV, CIMT and FMD measurements could be useful for evaluating the cardiovascular risk in TA patients. Further studies to determine the proper use of these measurements are warranted.