Inflammatory and Connective Tissue Disorders of the Aorta

This chapter discusses connective tissue diseases and inflammatory disorders that are known to affect the aorta and its major branches. While some of the diseases discussed in this chapter are quite rare, all have been associated with potentially life-threatening aortic complications making them an uncommon, but significant, clinical challenge. This chapter serves as a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and available medical and surgical treatments for aortic disease in each of these unique patient populations.