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An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
Lower extremity vasculitis in polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis
Tanaz A Kermani1, Kenneth J Warrington
1Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Current Opinion in Rheumatology
|November 2, 2010
Summary
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) can affect lower extremity blood vessels, leading to significant complications. Early recognition through imaging is crucial for managing this underdiagnosed condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Vascular Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are systemic vasculitides typically affecting large and medium-sized arteries.
- Extracranial involvement in GCA and PMR is increasingly recognized, suggesting a broader spectrum of disease than previously understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of lower extremity vasculitis in GCA and PMR.
- To highlight the clinical features, imaging findings, and outcomes associated with this complication.
- To discuss potential mechanisms underlying the distribution of vascular involvement.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes findings from recent imaging studies, clinical case reports, and outcome analyses related to lower extremity vasculitis in GCA and PMR.
- Literature search focusing on vasculitis affecting the lower extremities in the context of GCA and PMR.
Main Results:
- Imaging studies indicate that vasculitis in GCA and PMR can involve multiple vascular territories, including those in the lower extremities.
- Lower extremity vasculitis in these conditions is associated with significant morbidity.
- The clinical recognition of lower extremity involvement in GCA and PMR is often delayed.
Conclusions:
- Lower extremity involvement is an underrecognized but significant complication of GCA and PMR, potentially leading to substantial morbidity.
- Diagnostic imaging plays a vital role in identifying this uncommon manifestation.
- Awareness among clinicians is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
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