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An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
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Thromboembolic events in giant cell arteritis: a scoping review

Alexandre Tayler-Gomez1, Isabelle Chagnon2, Nathalie Routhier2

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.

Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2012)
|June 8, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) patients have a significantly higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), especially in the first year post-diagnosis. This increased risk persists for at least five years, impacting mortality.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Thrombosis Research

Background:

  • Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a serious vasculitis associated with ischemic complications.
  • Patients with GCA exhibit an elevated risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
  • Understanding VTE burden and predictors in GCA is vital for enhanced patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct a scoping review on venous thromboembolism (VTE) in adult patients diagnosed with Giant cell arteritis (GCA).
  • To synthesize existing evidence on the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of VTE in GCA patients.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive scoping review of PubMed-identified studies published since August 1990.
  • Inclusion of randomized trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series (≥5 patients).
  • Qualitative synthesis of extracted data on study characteristics, patient demographics, and VTE outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Eight studies involving 36,932 GCA patients were analyzed, with 4.3% experiencing VTE.
  • Consistently elevated VTE risk (OR 1.9–4.1) compared to controls, peaking within the first year (RR up to 11).
  • VTE risk remained elevated for at least 5 years; associated factors included inpatient diagnosis, comorbidities, thrombocytosis, and prior VTE. Higher mortality observed in GCA patients with VTE.

Conclusions:

  • Giant cell arteritis significantly increases VTE risk, particularly in the initial year post-diagnosis.
  • The elevated risk persists long-term, underscoring the need for vigilance.
  • Further prospective research is recommended to refine VTE prediction models and preventive strategies in GCA.
Abstract

Keywords:
deep vein thrombosisgiant cell arteritispulmonary embolismrisk predictionvenous thromboembolism

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