Giant Cell Arteritis Causing Isolated Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm
Ivka R Stimach1, Adil F Vural2, Marissa Edmiston3
1Department of Internal Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Background:
Pulmonary artery aneurysm (PAA) is considered a rare finding, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 14,000.
Case Summary:
We present a case of PAA caused by giant cell arteritis isolated to the pulmonary artery, in which surgical intervention followed by clinical monitoring was pursued over immunosuppressive therapy.
Discussion:
The etiology of PAAs is variable, with reported cases found to be secondary to malignancy, infection, congenital diseases, autoimmune diseases, and vasculitis. Of the reported cases for vasculitis, one of the rarer etiologies includes giant cell arteritis, an autoimmune vasculitis involving large and medium-sized vessels such as the temporal artery and aorta, and the great vessels.
Take-Home Messages:
This case highlights a rare vasculitic etiology of pulmonary artery aneurysm formation. Prompt recognition and surgical intervention may prevent serious complications, especially in aneurysms at unusual sites.
Insights
Pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAA) are rare. This case details a PAA caused by giant cell arteritis, a rare autoimmune vasculitis, successfully treated with surgery, highlighting an unusual etiology and treatment approach.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Pulmonary artery aneurysms (PAA) are rare, with an incidence of approximately 1 in 14,000.
- Etiologies for PAA are diverse, including malignancy, infection, congenital conditions, autoimmune diseases, and vasculitis.
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an uncommon cause of PAA, typically affecting large and medium-sized vessels.
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