Diseases Studied
The Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network is an NIH-funded research network of 20 active consortia or research groups working to advance treatment for diseases that are rare. Use the search tools on this page to find the diseases we currently study. You can reach out to the indicated consortia or research groups for more information on those diseases and studies underway.
This network focuses on clinical research and does not generally support clinical care outside of research activities. To learn about other rare diseases, please visit the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), which is an NIH program that helps the public find reliable information about rare and genetic diseases. Their staff are specialists. Contact them at 1-888-205-2311 or email GARDinfo@nih.gov.
All Diseases > Idiopathic Aortitis
Idiopathic Aortitis
Disease Category: Vasculitis Disorders
A rare disorder characterized by inflammation of the wall of the aorta (the largest artery in the body which transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body). While most forms of aortic inflammation have identified systemic causes, the cause of this form is unknown. Imaging may reveal aortic aneurysms (weakened areas in artery walls) and abnormal aortic wall thickening. Typically, affected individuals are asymptomatic (without symptoms), while others have abdominal or back pain, fever, or pulsing abdominal masses.
Research groups studying this disease
Vasculitis Foundation
Supports and advances the cause of vasculitis patients, researchers, and healthcare professionals.