Background: Takayasu arteritis (TAK) presents as systemic vasculitis. Imaging is crucial for the diagnosis and evaluation of TAK, but the rational selection of imaging methods and interpretation of imaging results are major challenges in clinical practice, which can affect treatment decisions. This guideline aims to establish standardized protocols for selecting imaging modalities (as well as interpreting their findings) in TAK.
Methods: Relevant clinical questions were formulated by an expert panel. Systematic reviews of evidence published from database establishment to 31 October 2023 were done. The grading system set by the Oxford University Evidence-Based Medicine Center was employed to assess the quality of evidence. Recommendations were developed through consensus using the Delphi method.
Results: Seventeen recommendation statements were developed based on evidence summaries and consensus. The first four recommendations focused on overarching principles. Recommendations 5 to 14 covered the advantages and disadvantages of different imaging modalities, as well as the selection of imaging modalities in the diagnosis and evaluation of TAK, including ultrasound (three statements), magnetic resonance angiography (two), computed tomography angiography (two), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (two), and digital subtraction angiography (one). Recommendations 15 to 17 focused on the selection of imaging methods for special populations and organ perfusion.
Conclusion: These recommendations could help to standardize the use of imaging modalities by clinicians in the diagnosis and evaluation of TAK.
Clinical trial number: Not applicable.
Keywords: Assessment; Diagnosis; Guideline; Imaging method; Takayasu arteritis.
© 2025. The Author(s).