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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
06:35
An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
[Thoracic aortic aneurysm due to giant cell arteritis without any specific symptom]
Takayuki Uchida1, H Andou, T Yasutsune
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Iizuka Hospital, Iizuka, Japan.
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|April 8, 2009
Summary
Giant cell arteritis is a rare cause of aortic aneurysms, even without typical symptoms like temporal pain. This case highlights the importance of considering uncommon causes for aortic arch aneurysms.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Surgery
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Aortic regurgitation and ascending aortic aneurysms are serious cardiovascular conditions.
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) typically affects cranial arteries but can involve the aorta.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old female presented with chest discomfort and was diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm extending to the proximal arch.
- The patient had no classic GCA symptoms such as temporal pain or polymyalgia.
Findings:
- Surgical repair included total arch replacement and aortic valvoplasty.
- Pathological examination of the resected aneurysm revealed giant cell arteritis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare presentation of GCA solely as an aortic aneurysm, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation in atypical cases.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of aortitis are crucial to prevent catastrophic aortic events.
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