Background: Takayasu arteritis is a chronic, granulomatous large vessel vasculitis affecting the aorta and its major branches. Oral manifestations may be the first sign of this potentially life-threatening condition.
Case Report: A 25-year-old female presented with chief complaint of painful oral ulcers and difficulty in opening mouth. Clinical examination revealed multiple necrotic ulcers on the palate and buccal mucosa. Radiographic examination showed irregularities in the carotid arteries on CT angiography. Laboratory investigations revealed elevated ESR and CRP. A diagnosis of Takayasu arteritis was made based on clinical, radiological and laboratory findings. The patient was started on corticosteroids and immunosuppressants with significant improvement.
Conclusion: Dental professionals should be aware of oral manifestations of systemic vasculitis as early signs can present in the oral cavity.
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