PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Aortitis is the inflammation of the aorta due to various 
causes. Clinical presentations vary as well as the imaging findings. Exact 
pathogenetic mechanisms or triggering factors, as well as the best diagnostic 
and monitoring modalities and treatment strategies, are yet to be elucidated. We 
reviewed recent studies in aortitis and associated diseases.
RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple cohort studies reporting long-term outcomes in 
patients with noninfectious aortitis were recently published. Comparative 
features of isolated aortitis were described. Six angiographic clusters for 
giant cell arteritis and Takayasu have been identified. New classification 
criteria have been proposed for IgG4-related disease by a data-driven method. 
The ultrasonographic slope sign and a halo score were described as specific 
imaging parameters in giant cell arteritis. The promising role of PET-computed 
tomography, not only in the diagnosis of aortitis but also in monitoring disease 
activity, has been noted. Results of in-vitro studies on Janus kinase 
(JAK)/signal transducers and activators of transcription and mammalian target of 
rapamycin (mTOR) pathways, comparative studies with leflunomide as an induction 
therapy, and a long-term follow-up study with tocilizumab may contribute to the 
management of Takayasu arteritis.
SUMMARY: An impressive number of studies have addressed aortitis in recent 
years. However, there still is a lack of robust data on causes, monitoring 
disease activity by imaging and biomarkers, and drugs providing steroid-free 
remission in noninfectious aortitis.