Comprehensive analysis of perfusion scintigraphy in Takayasu's arteritis.

One hundred eighty perfusion lung scans of 120 patients with Takayasu's arteritis were retrospectively evaluated. Lung scans were abnormal in 76% of the patients. Lung scans could be classified into four groups, according to the pattern of perfusion defects. Early involvement occurred in the upper lobes, and the middle and lower lobes were involved at a later stage. The data obtained by physiological examination (spirography and arterial blood gas analysis) showed a weak relationship with the severity of perfusion lung scan findings. In addition, repeated lung scans were found to be easy and reliable in the follow-up period of pulmonary artery involvement.