aortic anerysum in Takayasu's Arteritis

[quinan]

I have a 4.1 cm ascending aortic anerysum. I also have Takayasu's Arteritis which is an inflammation of my large vessels and aorta in particular. Should I be concerned of my aorta getting inflammed and bigger or should I take a wait and see approach. I understand there is a "time" when surgery is suggested, but with my disease should I be more concerned that I am not in the same position as most with the damages that Takayasu's can do.

I also have aortic regurgetation and have had pulmonary embolisms in the past. Am I classified as a candidate for surgery or a wait and see approach. Thanks so much

[Darcy Green Conaway, MD]

I think this is a very personal choice. You should have a conversation with a cardiothoracic surgeon about the risks and benefits so that you can make an informed decision. Usually people watch at this stage and follow it closely to ensure it is not growing/changing rapidly-- you follow the size and the rate of change of the size. Anytime someone has a major underlying vascular disorder it is a big deal and should not be taken lightly. I strongly encourage you to consult with a cardiothoracic surgery; I would encourage you to consider an academic institution as they may have a sub-specialist for this type of situation.

[quinan]

thank you so much for your reply. I am a 38 year old mom who has much more life to give to my children and husband. I will need to contact a cardiothoracic surgeon to evaluate me. I guess that a 4.1 cm anerysm is not a big deal to worry about, but I get concerned with the inflammation, when I get a flare up, does it get bigger while i am in a active phase. Or does it stay at 4.1 while i am in a flare up. The radiology dept. scanned me when I was not in a chronic flare up. Thank you so much for your comments, it helps me to push forward and not be too embarrassed to ask those questions. I appreciate it.