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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
Symptomatic lower extremity vasculitis in giant cell arteritis: a case series
Tanaz A Kermani1, Eric L Matteson, Gene G Hunder
1Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55901, USA.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|September 17, 2009
Summary
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) with lower extremity (LE) vasculitis is rare but causes significant morbidity. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing this condition and preventing severe outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Vascular Medicine
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis primarily affecting large and medium arteries.
- Lower extremity (LE) involvement in GCA is uncommon but can lead to severe complications.
Observation:
- This study reviewed 19 patients with GCA and symptomatic LE vasculitis.
- The majority of patients were women, with a mean age of 70 years at GCA diagnosis.
- LE symptoms often preceded GCA diagnosis, and cranial symptoms were frequently absent.
Findings:
- Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was common, and imaging revealed stenotic, occlusive, or aneurysmal disease in LE arteries.
- Hypertension was the most frequent cardiovascular risk factor.
- While most patients improved with glucocorticoid therapy, some required revascularization surgery or amputation.
Implications:
- Symptomatic LE vasculitis in GCA is a rare but serious condition.
- Early recognition of LE symptoms and prompt initiation of treatment are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- Further research may elucidate optimal management strategies for this rare presentation of GCA.
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