Influence of previous corticosteroid therapy on temporal artery biopsy yield in giant cell arteritis

Senescent cells in giant cell arteritis display an inflammatory phenotype participating in tissue injury via IL-6-dependent pathways

OBJECTIVES

Age is the strongest risk factor of giant cell arteritis (GCA), implying a possible pathogenetic role of cellular senescence. To address this question, we applied an established senescence specific multimarker algorithm in temporal artery biopsies (TABs) of GCA patients.

METHODS

75(+) TABs from GCA patients, 22(-) TABs from polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) patients and 10(-) TABs from non-GCA/non-PMR patients were retrospectively retrieved and analysed. Synovial tissue specimens from patients with inflammatory arthritis and aorta tissue were used as disease control samples. Senescent cells and their histological origin were identified with specific cellular markers; IL-6 and MMP-9 were investigated as components of the senescent associated secretory phenotype by triple costaining. GCA or PMR artery culture supernatants were applied to fibroblasts, HUVECs and monocytes with or without IL-6R blocking agent to explore the induction of IL-6-associated cellular senescence.

RESULTS

Senescent cells were present in GCA arteries at higher proportion compared with PMR (9.50% vs 2.66%, respectively, p<0.0001) and were mainly originated from fibroblasts, macrophages and endothelial cells. IL-6 was expressed by senescent fibroblasts, and macrophages while MMP-9 by senescent fibroblasts only. IL-6(+) senescent cells were associated with the extension of vascular inflammation (transmural inflammation vs adventitia limited disease: 10.02% vs 4.37%, respectively, p<0.0001). GCA but not PMR artery culture supernatant could induce IL-6-associated senescence that was partially inhibited by IL-6R blockade.

CONCLUSIONS

Senescent cells with inflammatory phenotype are present in GCA arteries and are associated with the tissue inflammatory bulk, suggesting a potential implication in disease pathogenesis.

Predictive Factors for Biopsy-Negative Giant Cell Arteritis and Alternative Diagnoses in a Neuro-Ophthalmology Context

Giant cell arteritis is a challenging diagnosis for patients given the high prevalence of negative temporal artery biopsies (TAB). Despite the lack of histopathological evidence of giant cell arteritis in the TAB, patients can still have TAB-negative giant cell arteritis. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the predictors for TAB-negative giant cell arteritis and the alternative diagnosis of biopsy-negative patients without a giant cell arteritis diagnosis. A retrospective electronic database review of all TABs performed at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital from February 2015 to May 2020. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictive factors for a diagnosis of TAB-negative giant cell arteritis. In all cases, a clinical diagnosis of TAB-negative giant cell arteritis was determined by a neuro-ophthalmologist. Alternative diagnoses for negative TABs were identified and explored. A total of 368 TABs were analysed with 287 (78%) negative for histopathological evidence of GCA. Twenty-seven (9.4%) patients were diagnosed and treated as TAB-negative giant cell arteritis. The clinical predictors of a TAB-negative giant cell arteritis diagnosis were the presence of jaw claudication (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.10-6.98) and CRP (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.03). Alternative diagnoses included non-specific headache, non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, retinal vessel occlusions, and ocular nerve palsies. Predictive factors for a diagnosis of TAB-negative giant cell arteritis were jaw claudication and an elevated CRP. Several alternative diagnoses can be considered for patients with a negative TAB in a neuro-ophthalmology context.

Overview of Vasculitides in Adults

Vasculitis is characterized by the inflammation of blood vessels. Vasculitides refers to the different forms of vasculitis, often classified according to the size of the blood vessel that is involved. Vasculitis may occur as a primary process or secondary to many systemic diseases. This topic provides an overview of the clinical features, diagnosis, and classification of the different forms of vasculitides.

Usefulness of 18F-FDG PET-CT for assessing large-vessel involvement in patients with suspected giant cell arteritis and negative temporal artery biopsy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the usefulness of 18F-FDG PET-CT for assessing large-vessel (LV) involvement in patients with suspected giant cell arteritis (GCA) and a negative temporal artery biopsy (TAB).

METHODS

A retrospective review of our hospital databases was conducted to identify patients with suspected GCA and negative TAB who underwent an 18F-FDG PET-CT in an attempt to confirm the diagnosis. The gold standard for GCA diagnosis was clinical confirmation after a follow-up period of at least 12 months.

RESULTS

Out of the 127 patients included in the study, 73 were diagnosed with GCA after a detailed review of their medical records. Of the 73 patients finally diagnosed with GCA, 18F-FDG PET-CT was considered positive in 61 cases (83.5%). Among the 54 patients without GCA, 18F-FDG PET-CT was considered positive in only eight cases (14.8%), which included 1 case of Erdheim-Chester disease, 3 cases of IgG4-related disease, 1 case of sarcoidosis, and 3 cases of isolated aortitis. Overall, the diagnostic performance of 18F-FDG PET-CT for assessing LV involvement in patients finally diagnosed with GCA and negative TAB yielded a sensitivity of 83.5%, specificity of 85.1%, and a diagnostic accuracy of 84% with an area under the ROC curve of 0.844 (95% CI: 0.752 to 0.936). The sensitivity was 89% in occult systemic GCA and 100% in extracranial LV-GCA.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms the utility of 18F-FDG PET-CT in patients presenting with suspected GCA and a negative TAB by demonstrating the presence of LV involvement across different subsets of the disease.

Distinguishing laboratory characteristics in giant cell arteritis: a real-world retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Untreated Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) has the potential to cause serious complications such as vision loss. Appropriate initial assessment by General Practitioners, early treatment and specialist referral are therefore essential in reducing morbidity. However, lack of awareness around the range of presentations can lead to a delay in diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to evaluate the discriminative diagnostic performance of laboratory characteristics associated with GCA in our population over a period of 18 months.

DISCUSSION

This is a real-world retrospective review of patients referred to ophthalmology services with concern for GCA. The pre-test probability of a patient referred with suspected GCA was 13.9% to have GCA, highlighting the need for specialist referrals to continue. White Cell Count (p = 0.01), Platelet Count (p = 0.02), Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p = 0.004) and C-reactive protein (p = 0.002) were significantly different between GCA and non-GCA cases. Moreover, this study demonstrates that absolute neutrophil count (p = 0.02) can be a useful parameter in initial investigations for GCA.

Consensus statement on the processing, interpretation and reporting of temporal artery biopsy for arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common systemic vasculitis in adults in Europe and North America, typically involving the extra-cranial branches of the carotid arteries and the thoracic aorta. Despite advances in noninvasive imaging, temporal artery biopsy (TAB) remains the gold standard for establishing a GCA diagnosis. The processing of TAB depends largely on individual institutional protocol, and the interpretation and reporting practices vary among pathologists. To address this lack of uniformity, the Society for Cardiovascular Pathology formed a committee tasked with establishing consensus guidelines for the processing, interpretation, and reporting of TAB specimens, based on the existing literature. This consensus statement includes a discussion of the differential diagnoses including other forms of arteritis and noninflammatory changes of the temporal artery.

Temporal artery biopsy for suspected giant cell arteritis: A mini review

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a granulomatous inflammation involving medium and large vessels that can lead to serious clinical manifestations associated with tissue ischemia. Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) is currently the gold standard method for the diagnosis of GCA, with a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 77%. However, the false-negative rate for TAB ranges from 9% to 61%. False negatives may be related to the timing of biopsy, the length of specimen, and the existence of "skip lesions." We reviewed the relevant evidence for methods to improve the sensitivity and reduce the false-negative rate for TAB. To reduce the false-negative rate for TAB, it is recommended to perform TAB within 1 week of starting corticosteroid therapy. Although there is currently no consensus, we suggest that the temporal artery is cut to a length of 20‒30 mm and to prepare serial pathological sections. It is necessary to attach great importance to patients suspected of having GCA, and complete TAB should be performed as soon as possible while starting corticosteroid therapy promptly. We also discuss the clinical value of non-invasive vascular imaging technologies, such as DUS, CTA, MRA, and 18F-FDG-PET/CT, as auxiliary methods for GCA diagnosis that could partially replace TAB.

Use of high-plex data provides novel insights into the temporal artery processes of giant cell arteritis

Objective

To identify the key coding genes underlying the biomarkers and pathways associated with giant cell arteritis (GCA), we performed an in situ spatial profiling of molecules involved in the temporal arteries of GCA patients and controls. Furthermore, we performed pharmacogenomic network analysis to identify potential treatment targets.

Methods

Using human formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded temporal artery biopsy samples (GCA, n = 9; controls, n = 7), we performed a whole transcriptome analysis using the NanoString GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler. In total, 59 regions of interest were selected in the intima, media, adventitia, and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (fold-change > 2 or < -2, p-adjusted < 0.01) were compared across each layer to build a spatial and pharmacogenomic network and to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms of GCA.

Results

Most of the transcriptome (12,076 genes) was upregulated in GCA arteries, compared to control arteries. Among the screened genes, 282, 227, 40, and 5 DEGs were identified in the intima, media, adventitia, and PVAT, respectively. Genes involved in the immune process and vascular remodeling were upregulated within GCA temporal arteries but differed across the arterial layers. The immune-related functions and vascular remodeling were limited to the intima and media.

Conclusion

This study is the first to perform an in situ spatial profiling characterization of the molecules involved in GCA. The pharmacogenomic network analysis identified potential target genes for approved and novel immunotherapies.

The Role of Imaging in Diagnosis and Monitoring of Large Vessel Vasculitis

Technological advances and increased recognition of the prevalence and implications of large vessel vasculitis have led to robust research into various imaging techniques. Although there is still debate about which modality to choose in specific clinical scenarios, Ultrasound, PET/CT, MRI/A, and CT/A offer complementary information regarding diagnosis, disease activity, and vascular complication monitoring. Recognition of the strengths and limitations of each technique is important for appropriate application in clinical practice.

The Effect of Corticosteroids on Temporal Artery Biopsy Positivity in Giant Cell Arteritis: Timing is Everything

OBJECTIVE

Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) remains the standard criterion for the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Temporal artery biopsy is suggested to be performed within 2 weeks from the initiation of corticosteroids. However, the effects of TAB timing on the sensitivity of its findings still warrant further investigation.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of patients with GCA from a tertiary medical center in Germany over an 8-year period.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 109 patients with a median age of 76 years and a median time from glucocorticoid treatment to TAB of 4 days. Approximately 60% of biopsies were positive. Our analysis yielded a nonsignificant trend toward shorter duration of corticosteroid treatment in the TAB(+) group ( p = 0.06). A more than 7 days' duration of steroid treatment was independently linked with lower rates of positive TAB (adjusted odds ratio, 0.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.11-1.00).

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the duration of corticosteroid treatment seems to affect the positivity of TAB in patients with suspected GCA. Further larger studies are required to confirm the generalizability of our findings.

Impact of previous glucocorticoid therapy on diagnostic accuracy of [18F] FDG PET-CT in giant cell arteritis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of prior glucocorticoid (GC) treatment on the diagnostic accuracy of ¹⁸F-FDG PET-CT in giant cell arteritis (GCA).

METHODS

Retrospective study of a consecutive cohort of 85 patients with proven GCA who received high-dose GC before PET-CT.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients previously treated with methylprednisolone (MP) boluses, of whom 37% were PET-CT (uptakes grade 3 or 2) positive. The positivity rate was 80% with MP doses of 125 mg, 33% with 250 or 500 mg, and 0% with doses of 1 g.  If we also classify as positive those cases with a grade 1 uptake (with a circumferencial uptake and smooth linear or long segmental pattern, possibly indicative of "apparently inactive" vasculitis), the positivity rate increases to 62% (100%, 50-60%, and 33% for the different MP doses, respectively). In patients with new-onset GCA treated with high-dose oral GC, PET-CT positivity was 54.5% in patients treated for less than two weeks, 38.5% in those treated for 2 to 4 weeks, and 25% in those treated for 4 to 6 weeks (increasing to 91%, 77%, and 50%, respectively, if we include cases with grade 1 uptake and these characteristics). In patients with relapsing/refractory GCA, or who developed GCA having a prior history of PMR, PET-CT positivity reached 54% despite long-term treatment with low-to-moderate doses of GC (68% including cases with a grade 1 uptake).

CONCLUSION

A late ¹⁸F-FDG PET-CT (beyond the first 10 days of treatment) can also be informative in a considerable percentage of cases.

Presenting Features of Giant Cell Arteritis with Active Versus Healed Arteritis on Biopsy

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is often categorised as "active" or "healed" on temporal artery biopsy (TAB). The purpose of this study was to compare the initial clinical presentation of patients with GCA according to active versus healed arteritis on TAB. A retrospective chart review was performed for patients with biopsy-proven GCA (BP-GCA) at a single academic medical institution from a previously reported cohort. The arteritis on TAB was categorised as "active" or "healed" based on the pathological reports. Demographic information, clinical presentation, past medical history, and test results were collected from the date of TAB. These baseline characteristics were entered into the GCA Risk Calculator. Of 85 patients with BP-GCA, 80% had active and 20% had healed disease according to histopathology. A higher percentage of those with active arteritis had ischaemic optic neuropathy (ION) (36% versus 6%, p = .03), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rates (92% versus 63%, p = .01), elevated C-reactive protein levels (79% versus 46%, p = .049), GCA risk score > 7.5% (99% sensitivity, 100% versus 71%, p < .001), higher mean GCA risk calculator scores (neural network p = .001; logistic regression p = .002). Patients with healed arteritis were less likely to have visual manifestations than the active arteritis group (38% versus 71%, p = .04). Patients with active vasculitis on biopsy had higher rates of ION and elevated inflammatory markers, as well as higher predictive scores from the GCA risk calculator. Further research is needed regarding correlation of biopsy findings and risk of complications or relapses.

Utility of biomarkers and temporal artery biopsy length for investigating giant cell arteritis in Western Australia

AIM

To explore demographic characteristics, biopsy length, and blood biomarker performance in an Australian cohort of patients who have undergone temporal artery biopsy (TAB) for giant cell arteritis (GCA).

METHODS

We extracted data on biopsies performed for GCA between January 2016 and December 2020 at public hospitals in Perth. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated for blood results. We evaluated the proportion of biopsies with post-fixation length less than 15 mm and explored several length associations.

RESULTS

We retrospectively reviewed biopsies of 360 patients (65.8% female, mean age 72.1 years). Biopsy-positive patients were older (6.0 years, P < 0.01), and had higher C-reactive protein (CRP) (44.5 mg/L, P < 0.01), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (18.9 mm/h, P < 0.01), and platelets (86.8 × 10³ /μL, P < 0.01) compared with biopsy-negative patients. CRP and platelets had the highest AUCs at 0.76 and 0.71, respectively. Sensitivities for CRP and ESR were 96.2% and 91.5%, respectively. Specificities were comparatively low at 41.3% for CRP and 37.4% for ESR. The proportion of biopsies with sub-optimal length was 55.9% and this varied significantly by site (P < 0.01). Smaller sites performed worse, with a sub-optimal biopsy rate of 87% amongst the three smallest sites.

CONCLUSION

ESR and CRP are helpful preliminary investigations, especially in identifying low-risk patients, but their specificity is limited. Smaller centers had a higher proportion of biopsies with sub-optimal length. Considering the importance of biopsy length for TAB diagnostic value, reviewing biopsy data may assist services in developing improvement strategies.

Optimizing the use of temporal artery biopsy: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Giant cell arteritis is an inflammatory disease of the large- and medium-sized vessels. It is the most common primary vasculitis, with lifetime incidences of 0.5% and 1% in men and women, respectively. Its diagnosis is based upon clinical criteria, which may include temporal artery biopsy. Expected positivity rates of temporal artery biopsies and patient selection remain controversial topics in the literature.

METHODS

A cross-sectional retrospective study of 127 patients referred for temporal artery biopsy with a diagnosis of suspected giant cell arteritis between January 2014 and December 2018 was performed. The primary outcome was the positivity rate. The relationships between positivity rates, symptoms, clinical suspicion, biopsy delay, biopsy length and corticosteroid treatment were also studied.

RESULTS

A positivity rate of 23.7% (16.6-32.6%) was shown, along with a significant association between jaw claudication and specimen positivity (odds ratio 8.1, p < 0.05). Moreover, there were significant associations between a high initial clinical suspicion of disease and specimen positivity (p < 0.05), as well as a high initial clinical suspicion of disease and pursuit of corticosteroid treatment following biopsy results, regardless of positivity (p < 0.05). The duration of corticosteroid treatment prior to biopsy was not associated with a change in positivity rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The positivity rate of temporal artery biopsy was 23.7%. Treatment of patients with negative temporal artery biopsy was associated with maintenance of corticosteroid treatment when the initial clinical suspicion of arteritis was high. Therefore, temporal artery biopsy may not be necessary for patients with a high initial clinical suspicion of giant cell arteritis.

Updates on the diagnosis and monitoring of giant cell arteritis

This mini-review offers a critical appraisal of the currently employed imaging or histopathological tools to diagnose and monitor giant cell arteritis (GCA). An overview of the most updated evidence and current application of color duplex ultrasonography (US), temporal artery biopsy (TAB), 18-fluorodeoxyglucose [18F] FDG-PET/CT, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography angiography is provided. The main limitations of each tool, and the most relevant research developments are discussed. The review highlights the complementary value of the available modalities to ensure a correct diagnosis of GCA, and to provide valuable prognostic information. Novel evidence is accumulating to support the role of imaging, and particularly US, as a monitoring tool for the disease, opening new perspectives for the future management of large vessel vasculitis.

Temporal artery biopsy: A technical guide and review of its importance and indications

Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) is a surgical procedure that enables the histological diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Performing a TAB requires expertise and a precise approach. Nevertheless, available data supports the value of tissue diagnosis in managing GCA. The current therapeutic recommendation for GCA is long-term glucocorticoid therapy, with an increasing emphasis on the addition of immunosuppressants/biotherapies. Though effective, immunosuppressants and other such biotherapies may put the patient at more risk. Optimizing the diagnosis through tissue evaluation is therefore important in weighing the risks and benefits of initiating therapeutic intervention. We evaluate the evidence supporting the importance of TAB and its indications. We also describe what technical approaches should be used to maximize sensitivity and to avoid possible complications during the procedure.

Giant cell arteritis: Update on clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis affecting people older than 50 years. The last decades have shed new light on the clinical paradigm of this condition, expanding its spectrum beyond cranial vessel inflammation. GCA can be now considered a multifaceted vasculitic syndrome encompassing inflammation of cranial and extra-cranial arteries and girdles, isolated or combined. Such heterogeneity often leads to diagnostic delays and increases the likelihood of acute and chronic GCA-related damage. On the other hand, the approach to suspected GCA patients has been revolutionized by the introduction of vascular ultrasound which allows a rapid, cost-effective, and non-invasive GCA diagnosis. Likewise, the use of tocilizumab is now part of the therapeutic algorithm of GCA and ensures a satisfactory disease control even in steroid-refractory patients. Nonetheless, some aspects of GCA still need to be clarified, including the clinical correlation of different histological patterns, and the prevention of long-term vascular complications. This narrative review depicts the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of GCA most relevant in clinical practice, with a focus on clinical updates and novelties introduced over the last decade.

Current developments in the diagnosis and treatment of giant cell arteritis

Giant cell arteritis is the most common vasculitis in adults above 50 years old. The disease is characterized by granulomatous inflammation of medium and large arteries, particularly the temporal artery, and is associated acutely with headache, claudication, and visual disturbances. Diagnosis of the disease is often complicated by its protean presentation and lack of consistently reliable testing. The utility of color doppler ultrasound at the point-of-care and FDG-PET in longitudinal evaluation remain under continued investigation. Novel techniques for risk assessment with Halo scoring and stratification through axillary vessel ultrasound are becoming commonplace. Moreover, the recent introduction of the biologic tocilizumab marks a paradigm shift toward using glucocorticoid-sparing strategies as the primary treatment modality. Notwithstanding these developments, patients continue to have substantial rates of relapse and biologic agents have their own side effect profile. Trials are underway to answer questions about optimal diagnostic modality, regiment choice, and duration.

Biopsy negative giant cell arteritis-Revised diagnostic criteria: Giant cell arteritis diagnostic criteria

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of giant cell arteritis has traditionally relied on demonstration of pathologic changes on temporal artery biopsy.

METHOD

To highlight recent advances in large vessel imaging resulting in revised diagnostic criteria for giant cell arteritis.

CONCLUSION

We call attention to the revised diagnostic criteria imaging evidence of extracranial large vessel thickening as an alternative to temporal artery biopsy in diagnosis of giant cell arteritis in a patient with heralding anterior fornix infarct.

What to Know About Biopsy Sampling and Pathology in Vasculitis?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize the histologic findings of vasculitis, and to give some practical considerations on biopsy samples.

RECENT FINDINGS

The larger use of imaging and the discoveries of serological markers in the diagnosis of vasculitis have increased the clinical recognition of these entities. Nevertheless, biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis in most cases. So far, biopsies are also useful to obtain information about prognosis and to guide a more specific treatment. In recent years, less invasive diagnostic approaches have become available, lowering the risks related to the procedure and permitting a definite diagnosis in most cases. Histological examination permits a definite diagnosis of vasculitis. However, the findings may be nonspecific if not evaluated in the proper clinical setting. The interaction between clinicians and pathologists is crucial to obtain a definite diagnosis.

Ocular Complications of Giant Cell Arteritis: An Acute Therapeutic Emergency

The risk of blindness, due to acute ischemic ocular events, is the most feared complication of giant cell arteritis (GCA) since the middle of the 20th century. A decrease of its rate has occurred after the advent of corticoid therapy for this vasculitis, but it seems to have stabilized since then. Early diagnosis and treatment of GCA is key to reducing its ocular morbidity. However, it is not uncommon for ophthalmological manifestations to inaugurate the disease, and the biological inflammatory reaction may be mild, making its diagnosis more challenging. In recent years, vascular imaging has opened up new possibilities for the rapid diagnosis of GCA, and ultrasound has taken a central place in fast-track diagnostic processes. Corticosteroid therapy remains the cornerstone of treatment and must begin immediately in patients with visual symptoms and suspicion of GCA. In that situation, the administration route of corticotherapy, intravenous or oral, is less important than its speed of delivery, any hour of delay worsening the prognosis.

Utilization of the Revised American College of Rheumatology (rACR) Scoring to Avoid Unnecessary Temporal Artery Biopsies-A Case Series

Introduction: The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria, and more recently the revised ACR criteria (rACR), are a scoring system developed to aid in the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). Our aim was to investigate the value of the non-biopsy criteria of the original ACR criteria and rACR criteria to predict GCA, and investigate the utilization of such scores to avoid biopsy when a very high or very low likelihood of a positive temporal artery biopsy TAB was predicted. Method: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 59 patients undergoing TAB from 2013 to 2017 in Beaumont Hospital, a tertiary referral centre in Dublin, Ireland. Demographic data, biochemical results, presenting features, and histology results were collected and collated. Results: Data were analysed from 53 patients and ACR scores were compiled. Seventeen scored < 3 and thirty-six scored 3−5. All 11 positive biopsies were in the 3−5 score range. Forty-five patients were analysed with rACR scores. Eight were excluded due to not meeting the inclusion criteria. Of the 11 positive biopsies, 2 were in the 3−4 score range, and 9 were in the ≥5 score range. In the ACR method, 36% of all biopsies scored as low-risk pre-biopsy. In the rACR method, 84.4% of all biopsies scored in the low- and intermediate-risk group pre-biopsy and 15.6% of all biopsies scored in the high-risk group pre-biopsy. Conclusions: This study illustrates the potential value of the rACR scoring system as a useful tool to categorize patients according to risk with a view to avoiding unnecessary TAB. The data suggest that a TAB has a helpful role in low- and intermediate-risk groups but is of minimal benefit in the high-risk group.

Clinical practice in giant cell arteritis based on a survey of specialists

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to learn about the clinical practice of specialists who care for patients with giant cell arteritis, to verify whether they follow the diagnosis and treatment recommendations for this disease, and to identify areas for improvement.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey on clinical practice in 2019. The survey was completed by 167 physicians (64% rheumatologists, 27% internal medicine specialists, and 9% other specialists) who attended a course on updating giant cell arteritis treatment. We compared the clinical practice collected in the study with the latest recommendations approved by the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR).

RESULTS

The physicians surveyed cared for a median of 10 patients (interquartile range 6-30) with giant cell arteritis during their practice. As a diagnostic method, respondents used temporal artery biopsy (84%), temporal artery ultrasound (61%) or other imaging techniques (37%). As first-line therapy, respondents used high-dose glucocorticoids (at least 40 mg of prednisone, or equivalent, per day) (84%), glucocorticoids with methotrexate (7%) and glucocorticoids with tocilizumab (5%). The most frequent drugs used for relapse were methotrexate (37%) and tocilizumab (58%).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that the medical specialists surveyed follow the recent EULAR recommendations for giant cell arteritis diagnosis and therapy.

Current advances in giant cell arteritis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to present the latest advances in giant cell arteritis (GCA) care, and recent national and international rheumatology societies guidance which influences clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

Cranial ultrasound reduces diagnostic delay and improves clinical outcomes. Immediate high dose glucocorticoids remain the standard treatment for GCA. Controlled trial evidence using Tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist, shows good clinical efficacy with steroid-sparing effects.

SUMMARY

Improved patient outcomes require formalizing pathways to diagnosis and closer liaison with rheumatology for long-term management with second-line therapies.

My Treatment Approach to Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common primary systemic vasculitis in adults 50 years or older. Expanded use of advanced arterial imaging has assisted both in the diagnosis of GCA and recognition of disease subsets. Although glucocorticoids have been the mainstay of treatment for almost 7 decades, new therapeutic options have emerged. This review aims to provide the clinician with a pragmatic approach to evaluating and managing patients with GCA while also addressing recent diagnostic and therapeutic developments.

[Management of patients with a suspicion of giant cell arteritis: Survey among general practitioners and specialists]

INTRODUCTION

Headache, visual disturbances and shoulder and hip girdle pain are frequent symptoms of consultation and the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) can be evoked in these situations. However, GCA is a rare disease, and the management modalities of a clinical suspicion of GCA are poorly described, which warranted this study.

METHODS

This is a survey evaluating the management of a suspected case of GCA. The questionnaires were sent to general practitioners (GPs), members of the French Rheumatology Society (SFR) and the French National Society of Internal Medicine (SNFMI) RESULTS: One thousand four hundred and fifty two physicians responded to the survey, including 967 GPs (66.6 %) and 485 other specialists (33.4 %). GPs immediately referred the patient to the emergency room in 42 % of cases, and to a specialist colleague in 72 % of cases in the presence of visual symptoms. GPs and other specialists reported performing temporal artery biopsy (TAB) respectively in 46.7 % and 69.7 % of cases (P<0.05). GPs and other specialists reported using diagnostic imaging in 7.4 % and 16.2 % of cases, respectively (P<0.05). Temporal artery ultrasound was the most used diagnostic imaging. The average prednisone equivalent dose prescribed as initial treatment was 1mg/kg/day for GPs and 0.7mg/kg/day for other specialists (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Some suspected GCA patients would be managed by their GPs. Imaging was little used for the diagnosis of GCA and TAB remained the preferred diagnostic examination. The initial prednisone equivalent dose varied between GP and other specialists.

When the Temporal Artery Biopsy is Negative: A Case Series of Headache Attributed to Polymyalgia Rheumatica

INTRODUCTION

Older adults presenting with a new or changed headache pattern in the setting of a diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are at risk for incident giant cell arteritis. However, the differential diagnosis of headache has not been evaluated in patients with a negative temporal artery biopsy (TAB). Headache has not been described as a symptom of PMR.

METHODS

After prospectively identifying an individual felt to have headache attributed to PMR, we performed a chart review to identify additional cases. As a secondary outcome, we summarized alternative headache diagnoses in patients with PMR, headache and a negative TAB.

RESULTS

A 75-year-old woman presented with a subacute history of radiating cervical pain in the setting of a 3 month history of lower back stiffness at rest and fatigue. Clinical examination was suggestive of a cervicogenic headache. Following treatment with low-dose corticosteroid for PMR, headaches, cervical mobility and systemic findings resolved with treatment of PMR with low-dose corticosteroid. In our cohort of 36 patients, we identified a single additional patient meeting our study criteria for headache attributed to PMR. Three additional patients met all but 1 diagnostic criterion. The retrospective case was a 73-year-old woman with a subacute history of both morning-predominant headaches and muscle stiffness, diagnosed with PMR. Headaches remitted with low-dose corticosteroid and relapsed with corticosteroid taper.

CONCLUSIONS

Headache attributed to PMR is a steroid-responsive syndrome which should be considered in an older adult presenting with features of PMR, when the TAB is negative. Diagnostic criteria for headache attributed to PMR are proposed.

Recent advances in the diagnosis and management of giant cell arteritis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) has classically been diagnosed by temporal artery biopsy and treated with high-dose, long-term glucocorticoid therapy. Noninvasive imaging increasingly is employed for diagnostic purposes, but further studies are needed to determine the role of imaging in monitoring longitudinal disease activity. Glucocorticoid-sparing therapy mitigates the numerous adverse effects of glucocorticoids. This review addresses new developments in these areas.

RECENT FINDINGS

For diagnosis, when performed at a center with expertise in its use, temporal artery ultrasound has an estimated sensitivity and specificity of 78 and 79%, respectively. State-of-the-art time-of-flight positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has an estimated sensitivity and specificity of 71 and 91%, respectively. The sensitivities of both imaging modalities decrease following glucocorticoid administration. Tocilizumab is an effective glucocorticoid-sparing therapy, demonstrating sustained glucocorticoid-free remission in 56% of patients receiving weekly tocilizumab compared with 18% of patients receiving a 52-week prednisone taper. The traditional acute phase reactants are of no value in patients treated with interleukin-6 receptor (IL6-R) blockade, and thus, the development of new biomarkers is an important priority in the field.

SUMMARY

Noninvasive imaging techniques are increasingly used in the absence of temporal artery biopsy to confirm diagnostic suspicions of GCA. Tocilizumab reduces the cumulative glucocorticoid exposure and increases the rate of sustained remission. Ongoing efforts are directed towards new methods to identify disease flares.

Diagnosis and management of giant cell arteritis: Major review

Giant cell arteritis is a medical emergency because of the high risk of irreversible blindness and cerebrovascular accidents. While elevated inflammatory markers, temporal artery biopsy and modern imaging modalities are useful diagnostic aids, thorough history taking and clinical acumen still remain key elements in establishing a timely diagnosis. Glucocorticoids are the cornerstone of treatment but are associated with high relapse rates and side effects. Targeted biologic agents may open up new treatment approaches in the future.

Clinical pathways for patients with giant cell arteritis during the COVID-19 pandemic: an international perspective

Giant cell arteritis, a common primary systemic vasculitis affecting older people, presents acutely as a medical emergency and requires rapid specialist assessment and treatment to prevent irreversible vision loss. Disruption of the health-care system caused by the COVID-19 pandemic exposed weak points in clinical pathways for diagnosis and treatment of giant cell arteritis, but has also permitted innovative solutions. The essential roles played by all professionals, including general practitioners and surgeons, in treating these patients have become evident. Patients must also be involved in the reshaping of clinical services. As an international group of authors involved in the care of patients with giant cell arteritis, we reflect in this Viewpoint on rapid service adaptations during the first peak of COVID-19, evaluate challenges, and consider implications for the future.

Impact of Temporal Artery Biopsy on Clinical Management of Suspected Giant Cell Arteritis

BACKGROUND

Temporal arteritis (TA) is a systemic inflammatory vasculitis of unclear etiology that affects medium-sized vessels. The gold standard for diagnosis has traditionally been histological, by temporal artery biopsy. Improved imaging modalities have been increasingly used to aid diagnosis and are recommended in the newest 2018 European (EULAR) guidelines.¹ We hypothesize that a negative TA biopsy result does not change management in patients for whom TA is strongly suspected and that duplex ultrasound can be successfully used as a screening tool.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent TA biopsy between May 1, 2012 and June 1, 2017. We reviewed patient's demographics, comorbidities, symptoms, histology, and treatment. We also present a small series of patients for whom ultrasound of the bilateral temporal arteries was performed. Radiology and pathology reports on these 7 patients were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 264 patients underwent temporal artery biopsies over the study period. Histology was positive in 21 (8.0%) and negative in 243 (92%) patients. In 74 (41%) patients with negative biopsies on steroids preoperatively, steroids were continued despite negative biopsy result. In prospective series, 7 patients underwent duplex ultrasound evaluation before scheduling for biopsy. Biopsy followed ultrasound in 4 cases, and in all 4 cases, histology was congruent with ultrasound findings.

CONCLUSIONS

The yield of temporal artery biopsy is low, and a negative biopsy alone often does not lead to termination of steroid therapy. Ultrasound may present a viable diagnostic tool to reduce the number of unnecessary temporal artery biopsies performed.

Determinants of Positive Temporal Artery Biopsies in the Veterans Health Administration National Database Cohort

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to determine the effect of temporal artery biopsy (TAB) postfixation length, laterality, age, and prior prednisone exposure on TAB positivity utilizing the Veterans Health Administration national database.

METHODS

Subjects with procedure code for TAB between 1999 and 2017 were queried, and pathology reports were reviewed manually. Demographic, laboratory, and prescription data were extracted. Multivariate analyses and logistic regression were run using Stata, version 13.0.

RESULTS

A total of 3,057 pathology reports were reviewed; 306 biopsies (10%) were designated positive. The likelihood of a positive TAB significantly correlated with TAB postfixation length of >3.0 cm (odds ratio [OR] 1.58 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.06, 2.36], P < 0.05) as well as with bilateral biopsy in 1 sitting (OR 1.83 [95% CI 1.29, 2.59], P < 0.01). Positive TAB also significantly correlated with age >71 years. Prednisone administration up to and beyond 42 days prior to TAB did not influence TAB result.

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study examined predictors of TAB positivity and utilized national data collected on US veterans over the span of 18 years. The results suggest consideration of pursuing initial bilateral TAB or achieving a TAB postfixation length of at least 3 cm to improve yield. The results also agree with prior studies showing that pre-TAB steroid exposure does not appear to affect yield even up to and beyond 42 days prior to biopsy.

Temporal arteritis with focal pachymeningitis: a deceptive association

Temporal arteritis is an immunological disorder mostly affecting the elderly population. This frequently occurs in association with other rheumatological diseases of the elderly. The symptoms of Temporal arteritis overlap with other symptoms of commonly occurring diseases in that population. Focal pachymeningitis in association with temporal arteritis is a rare finding and a literature review revealed less than ten cases of similar associations being published. In such instances, this finding can be mistaken for aseptic meningitis and treated erroneously. We present our case, discuss the management and summarize a review of literature about focal pachymeningitis along with temporal arteritis which was managed successfully with steroids and Toclizumab.

Diagnosis and Management of Rare Immune-Related Adverse Events

Oncologic treatment is being revolutionized by a burgeoning number of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPis). To date, seven ICPis have received Food and Drug Administration approval, targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen, programmed cell death, or programmed cell death ligand. Adverse events associated with checkpoint inhibition have been described in the literature. Guidelines exist for the most common of these, but as the use of ICPis becomes more common, the number of patients presenting with rare events will increase. This article reviews the diagnosis and management of rare ocular, hematological, luminal gastrointestinal, and rheumatological toxicities arising from ICPi treatment. KEY POINTS: As the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPis) becomes more common, the number of rare immune-related adverse events (irAEs) will increase. A high level of suspicion is required to identify and treat these toxicities. Although it can be difficult to definitively attribute rare irAEs to ICPis, a temporal and mechanistic relationship and the absence of other etiologies should make the treating physician suspicious for a rare irAE. Certain rare irAEs, such as celiac disease, do not require treatment with glucocorticoids. Thus, differentiating this irAE from other gastrointestinal irAEs has important implications for treatment.

Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA): Pathogenesis, Clinical Aspects and Treatment Approaches

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Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), or Horton’s Arteritis, is a chronic form of vasculitis of the large and medium vessels, especially involving the extracranial branches of the carotid arteries, in particular, the temporal artery, with the involvement of the axillary, femoral and iliac arteries too. Arterial wall inflammation leads to luminal occlusion and tissue ischemia, which is responsible for the clinical manifestations of the disease.

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A substantial number of patients affected by GCA present head and neck symptoms, including ocular, neurological and otorhinolaryngological manifestations.

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The aim of this article is to present pathogenesis, clinical aspects and treatment approaches of GCA manifestations.

[Large vessel vasculitis : Giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis]

According to the Chapel Hill Classification, large vessel vasculitides encompass giant cell arteritis (GCA) and the histologically related Takakaysu arteritis (TAK). The two diseases lack autoantibodies and present with a systemic inflammatory response. GCA typically shows a sudden onset with profound sickness, loss of appetite and of body weight, and temporal headache. Due to the substantial risk of sudden blindness, diagnostic work-up has to be performed immediately and treatment started without delay. A close association between polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and GCA is well established. Takayasu arteritis very often begins in adolescence. In contrast to GCA, the general symptoms are much less pronounced and aside from occasional carotidodynia there is a lack of diagnostic symptoms. TAK is often diagnosed in late stages due to exercise-induced claudication.

Diagnostic Performance of a Temporal Artery Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Giant Cell Arteritis in Japan-A Single-center Retrospective Cohort Study

Objectives To investigate the sensitivity and specificity of a temporal artery biopsy (TAB) in the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) in a single-center retrospective cohort in Japan. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed on consecutive patients who visited our hospital between April 2009 and October 2018 and underwent a TAB. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated for the three pathological standards for a TAB, predetermined according to the pathological criterion of the 1990 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria: A) vasculitis characterized by predominant mononuclear cell infiltration; B) vasculitis with granulomatous inflammation; and C) vasculitis with multinucleated giant cells. We also analyzed the clinical parameters predicting the diagnosis of GCA and the impact of a diagnostic delay of ≥3 months on cardiovascular complications of GCA. Results Our study population was 16 cases in the GCA group and 13 in the non-GCA group. The sensitivity and specificity for Standard A of a TAB were 81% and 85%, respectively, while those for stricter Standards B or C were identical, at 75% and 100%, respectively. These pathological standards, but not any other parameters, significantly predicted the diagnosis. A diagnostic delay tended to cause cardiovascular complications (p=0.057). Conclusion The sensitivity and specificity of the pathological standards of a TAB were favorable in our cohort and were the only predictors for the diagnosis of GCA. Considering the possible impact of a diagnostic delay on cardiovascular complications, the early recognition and prompt initiation of glucocorticoid therapy is needed, even in Japan, where GCA is uncommon.

Giant cell arteritis: is the clinical spectrum of the disease changing?

Background

Giant cell arteritis is a vasculitis of large and middle-sized arteries that affects patients aged over 50 years. It can show a typical clinical picture consisting of cranial manifestations but sometimes nonspecific symptoms and large-vessel involvement prevail. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is essential to avoid irreversible damage.

Discussion

There has been an increasing knowledge on the occurrence of the disease without the typical cranial symptoms and its close relationship and overlap with polymyalgia rheumatica, and this may contribute to reduce the number of underdiagnosed patients. Although temporal artery biopsy is still the gold-standard and temporal artery ultrasonography is being widely used, newer imaging techniques (FDG-PET/TAC, MRI, CT) can be of valuable help to identify giant cell arteritis, in particular in those cases with a predominance of extracranial large-vessel manifestations.

Conclusions

Giant cell arteritis is a more heterogeneous condition than previously thought. Awareness of all the potential clinical manifestations and judicious use of diagnostic tests may be an aid to avoid delayed detection and consequently ominous complications.

Diagnostic performance and utility of very high-resolution ultrasonography in diagnosing giant cell arteritis of the temporal artery

Objective

Very-high resolution US (VHRU; 55 MHz) provides improved resolution and could provide non-invasive diagnostic information in GCA of the temporal artery. The objective of this study was to assess the diagnostic utility of VHRU-derived intima thickness (VHRU-IT) in comparison to high-resolution US halo-to-Doppler ratio (HRU-HDR) in patients referred for temporal artery biopsy.

Methods

VHRU and HRU of the temporal artery were performed before a biopsy procedure in 78 prospectively recruited consecutive patients who had received glucocorticoid treatment for a median of 8 days (interquartile range 0–13 days) before imaging. Based on the final diagnosis and biopsy findings, the study population was divided into the following four groups: non GCA (n = 40); clinical GCA with no inflammation on biopsy (n = 15); clinical GCA with inflammation limited to adventitia (n = 9); and clinical GCA with transmural inflammation (TMI; n = 11).

Results

Both VHRU and HRU were useful for identifying subjects with TMI, with VHRU outperforming HRU (area under curve: VHRU-IT 0.99, 95% CI 0.97, 1.00; HRU-HDR 0.74, 95% CI 0.52, 0.96; P=0.026). The diagnostic utility for diagnosing clinical GCA (negative biopsy) or inflammation limited to the adventitia was poor for both VHRU and HRU-HDR. From 5 days after initiation of glucocorticoid treatment, VHRU-IT was increased in eight of nine patients, whereas HRU-HDR was positive in three of seven patients. Both methods showed excellent inter-observer agreement (Cohen’s κ: VHRU-IT 0.873; HRU-HDR 0.811).

Conclusion

In suspected GCA, VHRU allows non-invasive real-time imaging of TMI manifestations of the temporal artery wall. VHRU-derived intimal thickness measurement seems to be more sensitive than the halo sign and HRU-HDR in detecting TMI in patients with prolonged glucocorticoid treatment.

Pathologic Markers Determining Prognosis in Patients With Treated or Healing Giant Cell Arteritis

PURPOSE

To provide quantitative evidence linking the CD68 (cluster of differentiation 68)+ macrophage marker found on temporal artery biopsies (TABs) with disease prognosis.

DESIGN

Retrospective, cross-sectional study.

METHODS

We examined 42 consecutive patients who had undergone unilateral TABs at a single hospital in 2015. Clinical data, laboratory data, and histopathologic features of TABs were recorded. Inclusion criteria were clinical diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) with TAB performed at the same center. CD68 immunohistochemistry was used to label macrophages in the TABs. Primary outcome was multiple logistic regression and bivariate comparisons to measure the association between CD68+ cells per histologic section with placement on immunomodulatory therapy (IMT).

RESULTS

Twenty seven patients were female (64%), with a mean age of 72 (standard deviation [SD.] ±7.7). Eleven patients (26%) were placed on IMT, 17 (40%) had disease recurrence during steroid taper, and 25 (60%) were referred to rheumatology. Of 42 biopsies, 35 underwent staining with CD68 to confirm active inflammation in suspicious, but not diagnostic, specimens. Patients eventually placed on IMT had increased CD68+ cells per slice compared to those not on IMT (median 5.00 [25th-75th quartile 2.00-7.15] vs 1.21 [0.38-2.57], P = .031, respectively). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrates that 2.17 CD68+ cells/slice predicts placement on IMT with an odds ratio of 1.54 (95% confidence interval 1.02-2.33, P = .038).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients refractory to initial steroid tapers and those eventually placed on IMT had increased CD68 cells per section. CD68+ macrophages and their location on the internal elastic lamina may predict disease severity in patients with presumed GCA. Our results suggest that this marker may expedite patient triaging to alternate treatment to the usual steroid therapy.

Why do temporal arteries go wrong? Principles and pearls from a clinician and a pathologist

Early diagnosis and treatment of GCA is essential to prevent complications of the disease, including permanent vision loss. Temporal artery biopsy has been intrinsically linked with the diagnosis of GCA for several decades. A negative predictive value of > 90% has been reported for temporal artery biopsy; however, a negative result does not reliably indicate the absence of GCA because inflammation of the temporal artery is not always evident because of segmental involvement or other reasons. This is demonstrated by a case study of a patient hospitalized following acute vision loss to the right eye whose glucocorticoid treatment was suspended after temporal artery biopsy revealed no evidence of GCA. The patient subsequently lost sight in the left eye 6 weeks after stopping glucocorticoid therapy. The specificity of temporal artery biopsy for the diagnosis of GCA is variable and influenced by many factors, including length of biopsy specimens, vasculitis in vessels other than the temporal artery (ophthalmic, retinal and posterior ciliary vessels), unilateral versus bilateral biopsy, expertise of the surgeon, interpretation of histology, effects of treatment and confounding factors such as atherosclerosis or other non-GCA diseases that can affect the temporal artery. Considering the limitations of temporal artery biopsy, collaboration and education between the clinician, the pathologist and the patient, taking into account a thorough examination of patient history, recognizing signs and symptoms, and potentially involving newer imaging studies with trained technicians and physicians, are essential in confirming or eliminating diagnosis of GCA.