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Updated: May 16, 2025

An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
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

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Interdisciplinary approach in the management of visual loss in giant cell arteritis

Luca De Simone1, Chiara Marvisi2, Caterina Ricordi2

  • 1Ocular Immunology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy.

Saudi Journal of Ophthalmology : Official Journal of the Saudi Ophthalmological Society
|April 4, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a common vasculitis in older adults. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe visual disturbances and sight loss.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most prevalent vasculitis in Western countries, primarily affecting older individuals.
  • Glucocorticoids are the primary treatment, necessitating accurate and timely diagnosis.
  • Ocular complications, including sudden visual loss, are a significant concern in GCA patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the primary causes of visual disturbances in Giant cell arteritis.
  • To highlight critical "red flags" for early detection of sight-threatening complications.
  • To emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between ophthalmologists and rheumatologists.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on Giant cell arteritis and its ocular manifestations.
  • Analysis of diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols for GCA.
  • Identification of key clinical indicators associated with visual impairment in GCA.

Main Results:

  • Visual disturbances in GCA range from transient symptoms to permanent sight loss.
  • Ischemic events are the leading cause of visual complications.
  • Early recognition of specific symptoms can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • An interdisciplinary approach is vital for accurate and timely diagnosis of GCA.
  • Recognizing "red flags" aids in preventing irreversible visual loss.
  • Prompt initiation of treatment can mitigate the risk of severe ocular complications in GCA.

Keywords:
Giant cell arteritisophthalmologistrheumatologistvasculitisvisual loss

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