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Updated: Jun 26, 2025
06:35
An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
7.2K
Giant Cell Arteritis Masquerading as Tooth Pain: A Case Report.
Srishti Manocha1, Pranav Kataria2, Nilansh Kataria3
1General Dentistry, Private Practice, Ottawa, CAN.
Cureus
|May 9, 2024
Summary
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), a rare vasculitis, can present as dental pain in older adults. Early dental diagnosis is crucial to prevent vision loss and other serious complications.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Dentistry
Background:
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis primarily affecting large and medium-sized arteries.
- GCA symptoms can manifest in the head and neck, including orofacial pain, mimicking dental conditions.
- Early diagnosis is critical to prevent irreversible complications such as vision loss.
Observation:
- A case of a 60-year-old female with GCA presenting with severe unilateral jaw and tooth pain is detailed.
- The patient also experienced headache and partial vision loss, key indicators of GCA.
- Dental pain and temporomandibular disease (TMD) are common misdiagnoses for GCA in patients over 50.
Findings:
- GCA can present with primary symptoms of dental pain, leading to delayed diagnosis.
- Misdiagnosis as arthritis or TMD can result in severe ischemic complications.
- Prompt recognition of GCA signs in dental patients is essential.
Implications:
- Dentists play a vital role in the early detection of GCA.
- Increased awareness among dental professionals can improve patient outcomes.
- Timely referral for GCA diagnosis and treatment is critical to prevent vision loss and stroke.
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