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An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
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Aortic dissection and accelerated aneurysmal degeneration in a patient with giant cell arteritis

Maged Metias1,2, Salpy Kelian2, Christine MacColl2,3

  • 1Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

Journal of Vascular Surgery Cases and Innovative Techniques
|November 9, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) increases the risk of aortic dissection and nonatheromatous aortic aneurysms. A case report highlights endovascular treatment for descending thoracic aortic dissection in a patient with a history of GCA.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Rheumatology
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory condition that can affect large arteries.
  • Nonatheromatous aortic pathology, including aneurysms and dissections, has been linked to GCA.
  • Early diagnosis and management are crucial for preventing severe complications.

Observation:

  • A 76-year-old woman with biopsy-proven GCA and prior ascending aortic aneurysm repair presented with acute descending thoracic aortic dissection.
  • The aneurysm measured 4 cm in diameter.
  • The patient was successfully treated with endovascular techniques.

Findings:

  • This case underscores the association between GCA and aortic dissection.
  • Giant cell arteritis is identified as a significant risk factor for nonatheromatous aortic aneurysms and dissections.
  • Endovascular repair is a viable treatment option for aortic dissection in GCA patients.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of GCA as a risk factor for aortic pathology is essential for clinicians.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking GCA to aortic disease.
  • Timely intervention, including endovascular repair, can improve outcomes in affected patients.

Keywords:
Aortic aneurysmAortic dissectionAortitisGiant cell arteritis

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