[Giant cell arteritis. Experience in 32 patients].

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Vasculitis Research
• Systemic Autoimmune Diseases

Context:

• Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common systemic vasculitis affecting individuals over 50.
• Diagnosis relies on clinical, laboratory, imaging, and biopsy findings.
• Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) can be inconclusive in up to 40% of cases.

Purpose:

• To characterize the disease manifestations in patients diagnosed with GCA.
• To evaluate the utility of diagnostic tools, including TAB, in GCA management.

Summary:

• This study reviewed 32 patients diagnosed with GCA between 2000 and 2019, with a median age of 70.5 years (81% female).
• Frequent extracranial involvement (25%) was observed, alongside cranial symptoms (72%).
• Temporal artery biopsy confirmed the diagnosis in 65.4% of cases, with transmural inflammation being the most common finding. All patients received steroids, and 92% achieved remission within the first year, often with steroid-sparing agents like methotrexate.

Impact:

• Highlights the significant prevalence of extracranial involvement in GCA, underscoring the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches.
• Reinforces the value of temporal artery biopsy as a key diagnostic modality in suspected GCA cases.
• Demonstrates the effectiveness of current treatment strategies, including steroids and steroid-sparing agents, in achieving clinical remission for GCA patients.