Neurologic manifestations of giant cell arteritis

Antoine Soulages1, Igor Sibon2, Jean-Michel Vallat3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Competence Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, 'Côte Basque' Hospital (CH Bayonne), 13 Av. de l'Interne Jacques Loeb, 64100, Bayonne, France.

Journal of Neurology
|February 6, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a common vasculitis in older adults, often causing neurological issues. This review details cranial and extracranial GCA complications to aid diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Rheumatology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis in individuals over 50.
  • It involves large and medium-sized vessels, primarily cranial arteries.
  • GCA presents with diverse neurological symptoms affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the cranial and extracranial neurological complications of GCA.
  • To highlight diagnostic challenges and pitfalls in managing GCA.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of GCA, focusing on neurological manifestations.
  • Synthesis of clinical presentations and diagnostic considerations.

Main Results:

  • GCA can lead to a wide spectrum of neurological deficits.
  • Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial to prevent irreversible damage.

Conclusions:

  • Neurological complications are a significant feature of GCA.
  • Awareness of these complications is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid diagnostic pitfalls.

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