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Systemic cholesterol microembolization syndrome masquerading as giant cell arteritis
1Department of Neurology, Marshfield Clinic, Wisconsin.
Survey of Ophthalmology
|July 1, 1991
Insights
Systemic cholesterol microembolization can mimic giant cell arteritis. Biopsies confirmed this rare condition, highlighting its importance in diagnosing vasculitis-like illnesses.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis affecting large and medium arteries.
- Diagnosis of GCA typically relies on clinical suspicion and temporal artery biopsy.
- Systemic cholesterol microembolization syndrome (SCMS) is a rare condition that can present with diverse systemic symptoms.
Abstract:
Two patients with clinical features consistent with giant cell arteritis were found to have systemic cholesterol microembolization syndromes. Diagnostic confirmation was established by a muscle biopsy in one patient and by a kidney biopsy in the other. Systemic cholesterol embolization can masquerade as a variety of disorders, including vasculitis, and should be considered in a patient with suspected giant cell arteritis who has a negative temporal artery biopsy.