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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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Stroke secondary to giant-cell arteritis: A literature review

Zoltan Bajko1, Rodica Balasa1, Smaranda Maier1

  • 1Department of Neurology, 'George Emil Palade' University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania.

Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine
|July 1, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Giant-cell arteritis (GCA), a rare cause of stroke, often affects the vertebrobasilar area and is linked to mortality. Early diagnosis via ultrasound

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Rheumatology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Stroke is a major global health issue with common and rare causes.
  • Giant-cell arteritis (GCA), a vasculitis prevalent in the elderly, is an uncommon yet significant cause of stroke.
  • GCA-related strokes frequently impact the vertebrobasilar territory and contribute to mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the characteristics of stroke secondary to Giant-cell arteritis.
  • To highlight diagnostic approaches for GCA-related stroke.
  • To discuss the implications of GCA as a stroke etiology.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on Giant-cell arteritis and stroke.
  • Discussion of diagnostic tools, including duplex ultrasound and temporal artery biopsy.
  • Analysis of clinical presentation and outcomes in GCA-related stroke.

Main Results:

  • Giant-cell arteritis is an uncommon cause of stroke, particularly affecting the vertebrobasilar system.
  • The hypoechoic 'halo sign' on vertebral artery ultrasound can indicate GCA.
  • Temporal artery evaluation and biopsy are crucial for confirming GCA.
  • GCA-related stroke is associated with high mortality.

Conclusions:

  • Giant-cell arteritis represents a critical, though rare, differential diagnosis for stroke, especially in older adults.
  • Prompt recognition and investigation, including specific ultrasound findings, are vital for diagnosing GCA-related stroke.
  • Further research is needed due to the lack of evidence-based treatment guidelines for this rare condition.

Keywords:
giant-cell arteritishalo signstroketemporal arteritisultrasound

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