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Röhrich M, Rosales JJ, Hoppner J, Kvacskay P, Blank N, Loi L, Paech D, Schreckenberger M, Giesel F, Kauczor HU, Lorenz HM, Haberkorn U, Merkt W. Fibroblast activation protein inhibitor-positron emission tomography in aortitis: fibroblast pathology in active inflammation and remission. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024; 63:2473-2483. [PMID: 38648749 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keae225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Epigenetically modified fibroblasts contribute to chronicity in inflammatory diseases. Reasons for the relapsing character of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) remain obscure, including the role of fibroblasts, in part due to limited access to biopsies of involved tissue.68Ga FAPI-46 (FAPI)-PET/CT detects activated fibroblasts in vivo. In this exploratory pilot study, we tested the detection of fibroblast activation in vessel walls using FAPI-PET/CT in LVV with aortitis. METHODS Eight LVV patients with aortitis and eight age- and gender-matched controls were included. The distribution of FAPI uptake was evaluated in the aorta and large vessels. FAPI-uptake was compared with MRI inflammatory activity scores. Imaging results were compared with clinical parameters such as serum inflammatory markers, time of remission and medication. RESULTS Three aortitis patients were clinically active and five in remission. Irrespective of activity, FAPI uptake was significantly enhanced in aortitis compared with controls. Patients in remission had a mean duration of remission of 2.8 years (range 1-4 years), yet significant FAPI uptake in the vessel wall was found. In remitted aortitis, MRI inflammatory scores were close to be negative, while in 4/5 patients visually identifiable FAPI uptake was observed. CONCLUSIONS This pilot feasibility study shows significant tracer uptake in the aortic walls in LVV. FAPI positivity indicates ongoing fibroblast pathology in clinically remitted LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Röhrich
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Mainz University Hospital, Mainz, Germany
| | - Juan J Rosales
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Clinic of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jorge Hoppner
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Kvacskay
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Internal Medicine V, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert Blank
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Internal Medicine V, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lisa Loi
- Division of Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Paech
- Division of Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neuroradiology, Bonn University Hospital, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Frederik Giesel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Radiation Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hans Ulrich Kauczor
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hanns Martin Lorenz
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Internal Medicine V, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Uwe Haberkorn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg, German Center for Lung Research DZL, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Merkt
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Internal Medicine V, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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González-García A, Fabregate M, Serralta G, de Miguel Campo B, Noblejas-Mozo A, Robles-Marhuenda Á. The utility of 18F-FDG-PET/CT in detecting extracranial large vessel vasculitis in rheumatic polymyalgia or giant cell arteritis. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Rev Clin Esp 2024; 224:445-456. [PMID: 38852739 DOI: 10.1016/j.rceng.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Systematic review of current evidence to analyze the prevalence of extracranial large vessel vasculitis (LVV) using 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) or giant cell arteritis (GCA). MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed and EMBASE were searched and the results were screened by two reviewers. Study quality was assessed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the I2 statistic and the Q test. Further subgroup analyses were performed by disease type, study quality, and 18F-FDG PET/CT uptake criteria. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plot and Egger's test. RESULTS 268 publications were identified, of which 17 met the selection criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of extracranial LVV by 18F-FDG PET/CT was 54.5% [95% CI: 42.6%-66.1%]. In patients with GCA the prevalence was significantly higher than in patients with PMR (60.1% vs. 41.8%, P = 0.006). Likewise, studies with a lower risk of bias reported a higher prevalence of extracranial LVV (61.1% vs. 46.9%; P = 0.010). No publication bias was observed. CONCLUSIONS The 18F-FDG PET/CT test may be useful in the detection of extracranial LVV, both in patients with PMR or GCA. Such involvement is more frequent in patients with GCA, and may vary depending on the quality of the studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés González-García
- Unidad de Enfermedades Autoinmunes Sistémicas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Martín Fabregate
- Unidad de Enfermedades Autoinmunes Sistémicas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Serralta
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Infanta Sofía, San Sebastián de los Reyes, Madrid, Spain
| | - Borja de Miguel Campo
- Unidad de Enfermedades Autoinmunes Sistémicas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Noblejas-Mozo
- Unidad de Enfermedades Autoinmunes Sistémicas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Robles-Marhuenda
- Unidad de Enfermedades Autoinmunes Sistémicas, Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain
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Nielsen BD, Kristensen S, Donskov A, Terslev L, Dreyer LW, Colic A, Hetland ML, Højgaard P, Ellingsen T, Hauge EM, Chrysidis S, Keller KK. The DANIsh VASculitis cohort study: protocol for a national multicenter prospective study including incident and prevalent patients with giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1415076. [PMID: 39026552 PMCID: PMC11256208 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1415076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The DANIsh VASculitis cohort study, DANIVAS, is an observational national multicenter study with the overall aim to prospectively collect protocolized clinical data and biobank material from patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) diagnosed and/or followed at Danish rheumatology departments. A long-term key objective is to investigate whether the use of new clinically implemented diagnostic imaging modalities facilitates disease stratification in the GCA-PMR disease spectrum. In particular, we aim to evaluate treatment requirements in GCA patients with and without large-vessel involvement, treatment needs in PMR patients with and without subclinical giant cell arteritis, and the prognostic role of imaging with respect to aneurysm development. Hence, in GCA and PMR, imaging stratification is hypothesized to be able to guide management strategies. With an established infrastructure within rheumatology for clinical studies in Denmark, the infrastructure of the Danish Rheumatologic Biobank, and the possibility to cross-link data with valid nationwide registries, the DANIVAS project holds an exceptional possibility to collect comprehensive real-world data on diagnosis, disease severity, disease duration, treatment effect, complications, and adverse events. In this paper, we present the research protocol for the DANIVAS study. Clinical trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT05935709.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit D. Nielsen
- Department of Medicine, The Regional Hospital in Horsens, Horsens, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Salome Kristensen
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Agnete Donskov
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lene Terslev
- DANBIO and Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE), Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Centre for Head and Orthopedics, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lene Wohlfahrt Dreyer
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ada Colic
- Department of Rheumatology, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Merete Lund Hetland
- DANBIO and Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE), Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Centre for Head and Orthopedics, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pil Højgaard
- Department of Medicine (2), Holbæk Hospital, Holbæk, Denmark
| | - Torkell Ellingsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Stavros Chrysidis
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Kresten K. Keller
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Schmidt WA, Schäfer VS. Diagnosing vasculitis with ultrasound: findings and pitfalls. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis 2024; 16:1759720X241251742. [PMID: 38846756 PMCID: PMC11155338 DOI: 10.1177/1759720x241251742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatologists are increasingly utilizing ultrasound for suspected giant cell arteritis (GCA) or Takayasu arteritis (TAK). This enables direct confirmation of a suspected diagnosis within the examination room without further referrals. Rheumatologists can ask additional questions and explain findings to their patients while performing ultrasound, preferably in fast-track clinics to prevent vision loss. Vascular ultrasound for suspected vasculitis was recently integrated into rheumatology training in Germany. New European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology recommendations prioritize ultrasound as the first imaging tool for suspected GCA and recommend it as an imaging option for suspected TAK alongside magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography and computed tomography. Ultrasound is integral to the new classification criteria for GCA and TAK. Diagnosis is based on consistent clinical and ultrasound findings. Inconclusive cases require histology or additional imaging tests. Robust evidence establishes high sensitivities and specificities for ultrasound. Reliability is good among experts. Ultrasound reveals a characteristic non-compressible 'halo sign' indicating intima-media thickening (IMT) and, in acute disease, artery wall oedema. Ultrasound can further identify stenoses, occlusions and aneurysms, and IMT can be measured. In suspected GCA, ultrasound should include at least the temporal and axillary arteries bilaterally. Nearly all other arteries are accessible except the descending thoracic aorta. TAK mostly involves the common carotid and subclavian arteries. Ultrasound detects subclinical GCA in over 20% of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) patients without GCA symptoms. Patients with silent GCA should be treated as GCA because they experience more relapses and require higher glucocorticoid doses than PMR patients without GCA. Scores based on intima-thickness (IMT) of temporal and axillary arteries aid follow-up of GCA, particularly in trials. The IMT decreases more rapidly in temporal than in axillary arteries. Ascending aorta ultrasound helps monitor patients with extracranial GCA for the development of aneurysms. Experienced sonologists can easily identify pitfalls, which will be addressed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang A. Schmidt
- Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Lindenberger Weg 19, Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Valentin S. Schäfer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
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Hamann S, Ing EB, Lee AG, Van Stavern GP. Can Ultrasound Replace Temporal Artery Biopsy for Diagnosing Giant Cell Arteritis? J Neuroophthalmol 2024; 44:273-279. [PMID: 38551663 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000002132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Hamann
- Department of Ophthalmology (SH), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences (EI), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Chair of Ophthalmology (AGL), Blanton Eye Institute, Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas; and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (GPVS), Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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van der Geest KSM, Sandovici M, Bley TA, Stone JR, Slart RHJA, Brouwer E. Large vessel giant cell arteritis. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2024; 6:e397-e408. [PMID: 38574745 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(23)00300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis is the principal form of systemic vasculitis affecting people over 50. Large-vessel involvement, termed large vessel giant cell arteritis, mainly affects the aorta and its branches, often occurring alongside cranial giant cell arteritis, but large vessel giant cell arteritis without cranial giant cell arteritis can also occur. Patients mostly present with constitutional symptoms, with localising large vessel giant cell arteritis symptoms present in a minority of patients only. Large vessel giant cell arteritis is usually overlooked until clinicians seek to exclude it with imaging by ultrasonography, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), computed tomography angiography (CTA), or [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose-PET-CT. Although the role of imaging in treatment monitoring remains uncertain, imaging by MRA or CTA is crucial for identifying aortic aneurysm formation during patient follow up. In this Series paper, we define the large vessel subset of giant cell arteritis and summarise its clinical challenges. Furthermore, we identify areas for future research regarding the management of large vessel giant cell arteritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelis S M van der Geest
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Thorsten A Bley
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Wuerzburg, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - James R Stone
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Riemer H J A Slart
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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Dejaco C, Ramiro S, Bond M, Bosch P, Ponte C, Mackie SL, Bley TA, Blockmans D, Brolin S, Bolek EC, Cassie R, Cid MC, Molina-Collada J, Dasgupta B, Nielsen BD, De Miguel E, Direskeneli H, Duftner C, Hočevar A, Molto A, Schäfer VS, Seitz L, Slart RHJA, Schmidt WA. EULAR recommendations for the use of imaging in large vessel vasculitis in clinical practice: 2023 update. Ann Rheum Dis 2024; 83:741-751. [PMID: 37550004 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To update the EULAR recommendations for the use of imaging modalities in primary large vessel vasculitis (LVV). METHODS A systematic literature review update was performed to retrieve new evidence on ultrasound, MRI, CT and [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) for diagnosis, monitoring and outcome prediction in LVV. The task force consisted of 24 physicians, health professionals and patients from 14 countries. The recommendations were updated based on evidence and expert opinion, iterating until voting indicated consensus. The level of agreement was determined by anonymous votes. RESULTS Three overarching principles and eight recommendations were agreed. Compared to the 2018 version, ultrasound is now recommended as first-line imaging test in all patients with suspected giant cell arteritis, and axillary arteries should be included in the standard examination. As an alternative to ultrasound, cranial and extracranial arteries can be examined by FDG-PET or MRI. For Takayasu arteritis, MRI is the preferred imaging modality; FDG-PET, CT or ultrasound are alternatives. Although imaging is not routinely recommended for follow-up, ultrasound, FDG-PET or MRI may be used for assessing vessel abnormalities in LVV patients with suspected relapse, particularly when laboratory markers of inflammation are unreliable. MR-angiography, CT-angiography or ultrasound may be used for long-term monitoring of structural damage, particularly at sites of preceding vascular inflammation. CONCLUSIONS The 2023 EULAR recommendations provide up-to-date guidance for the role of imaging in the diagnosis and assessment of patients with LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Department of Rheumatology, Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsius Medical University, Brunico Hospital (ASAA-SABES), Brunico, Italy
| | - Sofia Ramiro
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Milena Bond
- Department of Rheumatology, Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsius Medical University, Brunico Hospital (ASAA-SABES), Brunico, Italy
| | - Philipp Bosch
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Department of Rheumatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitario Lisboa Norte EPE, Lisboa, Portugal
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sarah Louise Mackie
- Leeds Institute for Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Thorsten A Bley
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Blockmans
- Clinical Department of General Internal Medicine Department, Research Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious and Inflammatory Disorders, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- General Internal Medicine Department, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sara Brolin
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dermatology and Rheumatology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ertugrul Cagri Bolek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Hacettepe Universitesi Tip Fakultesi, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Maria C Cid
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona. Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Molina-Collada
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon, UK
- Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Berit Dalsgaard Nielsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus Universitetshospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Medicine, Regional Hospital Horsens, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Eugenio De Miguel
- Department of Rheumatology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Haner Direskeneli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Marmara University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Christina Duftner
- Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Division of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Alojzija Hočevar
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anna Molto
- Department of Rheumatology, Cochin Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
- INSERM (U1153) Center of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
| | - Valentin Sebastian Schäfer
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, Section Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Luca Seitz
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Riemer H J A Slart
- Medical Imaging Centre, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, Universiteit Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Department of Rheumatology, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
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Kaandorp BI, Raterman HG, Stam F, Gamala M, Meijer‐Jorna LB, Kalb FB, Wallis JW. Determination of the Value of Color Doppler Ultrasound in Patients With a Clinical Suspicion of Giant Cell Arteritis. ACR Open Rheumatol 2024; 6:56-63. [PMID: 37997540 PMCID: PMC10867289 DOI: 10.1002/acr2.11628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It is urgent to diagnose giant cell arteritis (GCA) as quickly as possible to prevent irreversible blindness. The traditional gold standard for diagnosing GCA is temporal artery biopsy (TAB). However, TAB lacks diagnostic performance and carries out risks of surgical intervention. The noninvasive color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) seems to be a promising alternative. This study is designed to assess the diagnostic value of CDU in daily clinical practice. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, patients with a clinical suspicion of active GCA were included and underwent a CDU of the temporal arteries. If deemed necessary by the referrer, a TAB and/or 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography was performed. The retrospective clinical diagnosis was determined 1 year after inclusion by two physicians experienced in the field of vasculitis. RESULTS 242 patients were included and GCA was diagnosed in 73 (30%) patients by the defined retrospective clinical diagnosis. Compared with the retrospective diagnosis, CDU has a sensitivity of 60% (48-72), specificity of 94% (89-97), positive predictive value (PPV) of 81% (70-89), negative predictive value (NPV) of 85% (80-88), and an accuracy of 84% (78-88). A total of 84 (35%) patients underwent TAB. TAB has a sensitivity of 66% (51-79), specificity of 100% (90-100), PPV of 100% (100), NPV of 67% (58-75), and an accuracy of 80% (70-88). CONCLUSION This study shows comparable diagnostic performance for CDU and TAB and even better CDU results with a bilateral halo present. Considering the advantages of the noninvasive CDU, it is the diagnostic tool of choice.
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Romero-Sanchez G, Dabiri M, Mossa-Basha M. Primary Large Vessel Vasculitis: Takayasu Arteritis and Giant Cell Arteritis. Neuroimaging Clin N Am 2024; 34:53-65. [PMID: 37951705 DOI: 10.1016/j.nic.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Takayasu arteritis (TA) and Giant cell arteritis (GCA) are large vessel vasculitides, with TA targeting the aorta and its branches, and GCA targeting both large and medium-sized arteries. Early diagnosis of TA and GCA are of great importance, since delayed, inappropriate or no treatment can result in severe and permanent complications. Imaging plays a central role in establishing diagnosis, targeting lesions for confirmational diagnostic biopsy, specifically for GCA, and longitudinal disease evolution. In this article, we discuss imaging diagnosis of large artery vasculitis and the value of different imaging modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Griselda Romero-Sanchez
- Department of Radiology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Medicas y Nutricion Salvador Zubiran, Textitlan 21 Casa 11, Santa Ursula Xitla, Tlalpan, Mexico City 14420, Mexico
| | - Mona Dabiri
- Department of Radiology, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Abi Avenue, Dolat St, Tehran 11369, Iran
| | - Mahmud Mossa-Basha
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 Northeast Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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De Miguel E, Macchioni P, Conticini E, Campochiaro C, Karalilova R, Monti S, Ponte C, Klinowski G, Monjo-Henry I, Falsetti P, Batalov Z, Tomelleri A, Hocevar A. Prevalence and characteristics of subclinical giant cell arteritis in polymyalgia rheumatica. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2024; 63:158-164. [PMID: 37129541 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main objective of this study was to analyse the prevalence and characteristics of subclinical GCA in patients with PMR. METHODS This was a cross-sectional multicentre international study of consecutive patients with newly diagnosed PMR without symptoms or signs suggestive of GCA. All patients underwent US of the temporal superficial, common carotid, subclavian and axillary arteries. Patients with halo signs in at least one examined artery were considered to have subclinical GCA. The clinical, demographic and laboratory characteristics of the PMR group without subclinical vasculitis were compared with subclinical GCA, and the pattern of vessel involvement was compared with that of a classical single-centre GCA cohort. RESULTS We included 346 PMR patients, 267 (77.2%) without subclinical GCA and 79 (22.8%) with subclinical GCA. The PMR patients with subclinical GCA were significantly older, had a longer duration of morning stiffness and more frequently reported hip pain than PMR without subclinical GCA. PMR with subclinical GCA showed a predominant extracranial large vessel pattern of vasculitic involvement compared with classical GCA, where the cranial phenotype predominated. The patients with PMR in the classical GCA group showed a pattern of vessel involvement similar to classical GCA without PMR but different from PMR with subclinical involvement. CONCLUSION More than a fifth of the pure PMR patients had US findings consistent with subclinical GCA. This specific subset of patients showed a predilection for extracranial artery involvement. The optimal screening strategy to assess the presence of vasculitis in PMR remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio De Miguel
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Edoardo Conticini
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Corrado Campochiaro
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology Department, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Rositsa Karalilova
- Rheumatology Department, Medical University of Plovdiv, University Hospital Kaspela, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Sara Monti
- Department of Rheumatology, IRCCS Policlinico S Matteo Fondazione, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitario Lisboa Norte EPE, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Giulia Klinowski
- Department of Rheumatology, IRCCS-S.Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Irene Monjo-Henry
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paolo Falsetti
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Zguro Batalov
- Rheumatology Department, Medical University of Plovdiv, University Hospital Kaspela, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Alessandro Tomelleri
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology Department, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alojzija Hocevar
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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11
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Nienhuis PH, van Nieuwland M, van Praagh GD, Markusiewicz K, Colin EM, van der Geest KSM, Wagenaar N, Brouwer E, Alves C, Slart RHJA. Comparing Diagnostic Performance of Short and Long [ 18F]FDG-PET Acquisition Times in Giant Cell Arteritis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 14:62. [PMID: 38201371 PMCID: PMC10802840 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: In giant cell arteritis (GCA), the assessment of cranial arteries using [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) combined with low-dose computed tomography (CT) may be challenging due to low image quality. This study aimed to investigate the effect of prolonged acquisition time on the diagnostic performance of [18F]FDG PET/CT in GCA. (2) Methods: Patients with suspected GCA underwent [18F]FDG-PET imaging with a short acquisition time (SAT) and long acquisition time (LAT). Two nuclear medicine physicians (NMPs) reported the presence or absence of GCA according to the overall image impression (gestalt) and total vascular score (TVS) of the cranial arteries. Inter-observer agreement and intra-observer agreement were assessed. (3) Results: In total, 38 patients were included, of whom 20 were diagnosed with GCA and 18 were without it. Sensitivity and specificity for GCA on SAT scans were 80% and 72%, respectively, for the first NMP, and 55% and 89% for the second NMP. On the LAT scans, these values were 65% and 83%, and 75% and 83%, respectively. When using the TVS, LAT scans showed especially increased specificity (94% for both NMPs). Observer agreement was higher on the LAT scans compared with that on the SAT scan. (4) Conclusions: LAT combined with the use of the TVS may decrease the number of false-positive assessments of [18F]FDG PET/CT. Additionally, LAT and TVS may increase both inter and intra-observer agreement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter H. Nienhuis
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke van Nieuwland
- Hospital Group Twente, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 7600 SZ Almelo, The Netherlands; (M.v.N.); (C.A.)
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gijs D. van Praagh
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Edgar M. Colin
- Hospital Group Twente, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 7600 SZ Almelo, The Netherlands; (M.v.N.); (C.A.)
| | - Kornelis S. M. van der Geest
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nils Wagenaar
- Hospital Group Twente, Department of Nuclear Medicine, 7555 DL Hengelo, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Celina Alves
- Hospital Group Twente, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, 7600 SZ Almelo, The Netherlands; (M.v.N.); (C.A.)
| | - Riemer H. J. A. Slart
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- University of Twente, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
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12
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Casteleyn V, Schmidt WA. [Imaging of large vessel vasculitis]. Z Rheumatol 2023; 82:646-653. [PMID: 37620546 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-023-01405-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK) are the most important primary large vessel vasculitides. A rapid and reliable confirmation of the diagnosis is necessary to prevent ischemic complications. Patients with extracranial GCA and TAK often present with unspecific symptoms. Since 2018 the EULAR has recommended imaging as an alternative to histology for confirming the diagnosis. Ultrasound is particularly recommended as the primary imaging modality for cranial GCA. Alternatively, MRI and PET can be used for the diagnostics of temporal arteritis. Ultrasound is also valuable for extracranial GCA, alternatively MRI, CT or PET-CT can be used. This review discusses the current status of imaging techniques in large vessel vasculitis as well as the advantages and disadvantages. The focus is on ultrasound, which is increasingly being used as the primary diagnostic modality due to its excellent diagnostic quality, wide availability, noninvasiveness, and patient friendliness. Technical aspects, prerequisites, and normal and pathological findings are also presented. Finally, an outlook is given on promising new developments, such as scores for evaluating disease progression and contrast-enhanced ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Casteleyn
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie und klinische Immunologie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Wolfgang Andreas Schmidt
- Abteilung Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Standort Berlin-Buch, Lindenberger Weg 19, 13125, Berlin, Deutschland
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13
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Nielsen BD, Therkildsen P, Keller KK, Gormsen LC, Hansen IT, Hauge EM. Ultrasonography in the assessment of disease activity in cranial and large-vessel giant cell arteritis: a prospective follow-up study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:3084-3094. [PMID: 36651670 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kead028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated sensitivity to change and discriminative abilities of vascular US scores in disease monitoring in the follow-up of a prospective cohort of new-onset cranial and large-vessel (LV) GCA patients. METHODS Baseline and follow-up (8 weeks, 24 weeks and 15 months) US of temporal arteries (TA), carotid and axillary arteries (LV) included assessment of halo and measurement of the intima media complex (IMC). Max IMC, max halo IMC, sum IMC, sum halo IMC, mean IMC, halo count and the Southend halo score were calculated. The provisional OMERACT US score, OGUS, was obtained, taking the average of temporal arteries and axillary arteries IMCs divided by their normal cut-off values. RESULTS Baseline US was positive in 44/47 patients (72% TA, 72% LV). Sensitivity to change of all composite US scores containing TAs was evident by week 8 onward. LVs responded poorly and new axillary US lesions emerged in six patients despite clinical remission. The OGUS showed a large magnitude of change and is considered the score least prone to potential bias. All TA-based US scores showed moderate-strong correlation with disease activity markers. OGUS, TA halo count, Southend TA halo score, TA sum IMC and TA mean IMC showed potential to discriminate remission and relapse with area under the curve ≥0.8. CONCLUSIONS The OGUS is suggested as an outcome measurement for the assessment of treatment response in clinical trials. The abilities of US scores to discriminate remission and relapse are encouraging and should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Dalsgaard Nielsen
- Department of Medicine, The Regional Hospital in Horsens, Horsens, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Philip Therkildsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kresten K Keller
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lars C Gormsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ib T Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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14
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Bosch P, Bond M, Dejaco C, Ponte C, Mackie SL, Falzon L, Schmidt WA, Ramiro S. Imaging in diagnosis, monitoring and outcome prediction of large vessel vasculitis: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis informing the 2023 update of the EULAR recommendations. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003379. [PMID: 37620113 PMCID: PMC10450079 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To update the evidence on imaging for diagnosis, monitoring and outcome prediction in large vessel vasculitis (LVV) to inform the 2023 update of the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology recommendations on imaging in LVV. METHODS Systematic literature review (SLR) (2017-2022) including prospective cohort and cross-sectional studies (>20 participants) on diagnostic, monitoring, outcome prediction and technical aspects of LVV imaging. Diagnostic accuracy data were meta-analysed in combination with data from an earlier (2017) SLR. RESULTS The update retrieved 38 studies, giving a total of 81 studies when combined with the 2017 SLR. For giant cell arteritis (GCA), and taking clinical diagnosis as a reference standard, low risk of bias (RoB) studies yielded pooled sensitivities and specificities (95% CI) of 88% (82% to 92%) and 96% (95% CI 86% to 99%) for ultrasound (n=8 studies), 81% (95% CI 71% to 89%) and 98% (95% CI 89% to 100%) for MRI (n=3) and 76% (95% CI 67% to 83%) and 95% (95% CI 71% to 99%) for fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET, n=4), respectively. Compared with studies assessing cranial arteries only, low RoB studies with ultrasound assessing both cranial and extracranial arteries revealed a higher sensitivity (93% (95% CI 88% to 96%) vs 80% (95% CI 71% to 87%)) with comparable specificity (94% (95% CI 83% to 98%) vs 97% (95% CI 71% to 100%)). No new studies on diagnostic imaging for Takayasu arteritis (TAK) were found. Some monitoring studies in GCA or TAK reported associations of imaging with clinical signs of inflammation. No evidence was found to determine whether imaging severity might predict worse clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION Ultrasound, MRI and FDG-PET revealed a good performance for the diagnosis of GCA. Cranial and extracranial vascular ultrasound had a higher pooled sensitivity with similar specificity compared with limited cranial ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Bosch
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Milena Bond
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Bruneck (ASAA-SABES), Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsius Medical University, Brunico, Italy
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Bruneck (ASAA-SABES), Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsius Medical University, Brunico, Italy
| | - Cristina Ponte
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Norte, EPE, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sarah Louise Mackie
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Louise Falzon
- Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Department of Rheumatology, Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Centre for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sofia Ramiro
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Heerlen, The Netherlands
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15
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Molina-Collada J, Castrejón I, Monjo-Henry I, Fernández-Fernández E, Torres Ortiz G, Martínez-Barrio J, Álvaro-Gracia JM, de Miguel E. Impact of ultrasound limitation to assess aortitis in patients with giant cell arteritis: comparative study with FDG-PET/CT. RMD Open 2023; 9:e003329. [PMID: 37597848 PMCID: PMC10441063 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of ultrasound (US) intrinsic limitation to assess aortitis versus FDG-PET/CT in patients with US-proven giant cell arteritis (GCA) and to identify factors associated with aortic involvement. METHODS Retrospective observational study of patients referred to US fast-track clinics at two academic centres over a 4-year period. Only patients with GCA confirmed by US were included. Temporal arteries (TA) and extracranial arteries US were performed at baseline. FDG-PET/CT was performed according to clinician's criteria. An FDG artery uptake at the aorta higher than liver uptake was considered positive for aortitis. RESULTS Seventy-two of 186 patients with US-proven GCA underwent an FDG-PET/CT; 29 (40.3%) had a positive FDG-PET/CT and 24 (33.3%) presented aortitis. Only 6 (20.7%) patients with positive FDG-PET/CT had negative US findings of large vessel (LV)-GCA. Among patients with aortitis in FDG-PET/CT, only two (8.3%) had negative US findings of LV-GCA. Patients with aortitis were younger (68.9 vs 81;p<0.001), more frequently females (79.2% vs 39.6%;p=0.002) and had higher platelets count (413.4 vs 311.1;p=0014). Patients with aortitis presented positive TA US less frequently (41.7% vs 83.3%;p<0.001), but more LV US involvement (91.7% vs 41.7%; p<0.001) versus patients without aortitis. None of the patients with aortitis exhibited visual symptoms (0% vs 31.2%;p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS FDG-PET/CT can detect aortitis in one out of every three patients with US-proven GCA. However, a negative US examination for LV-GCA suggests a low risk of aortitis. Younger and female GCA patients with thrombocytosis, absence of visual manifestations and LV-GCA on US may more frequently present aortitis by FDG-PET/CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Molina-Collada
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Castrejón
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine. Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Monjo-Henry
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Julia Martínez-Barrio
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - José María Álvaro-Gracia
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine. Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eugenio de Miguel
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Lyne SA, Ruediger C, Lester S, Kaur G, Stamp L, Shanahan EM, Hill CL. Clinical phenotype and complications of large vessel giant cell arteritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Joint Bone Spine 2023; 90:105558. [PMID: 36858169 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2023.105558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) is a heterogenous systemic granulomatous vasculitis involving the aorta and any of its major tributaries. Despite increased awareness of large vessel (LV) involvement, studies reporting incidence, clinical characteristics and complications of large-vessel GCA (LV-GCA) show conflicting results due to inconsistent disease definitions, differences in study methodologies and the broad spectrum of clinical presentations. The aim of this systematic literature review was to better define LV-GCA based on the available literature and identify distinguishing characteristics that may differentiate LV-GCA patients from those with limited cranial disease. METHODS Published studies indexed in MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched from database inception to 7th May 2021. Studies were included if they presented cohort or cross-sectional data on a minimum of 25 patients with LV-GCA. Control groups were included if data was available on patients with limited cranial GCA (C-GCA). Data was quantitatively synthesised with application of a random effects meta-regression model, using Stata. RESULTS The search yielded 3488 studies, of which 46 were included. Diagnostic criteria for LV-GCA differed between papers, but was typically dependent on imaging or histopathology. Patients with LV-GCA were generally younger at diagnosis compared to C-GCA patients (mean age difference -4.53 years), had longer delay to diagnosis (mean difference 3.03 months) and lower rates of positive temporal artery biopsy (OR: 0.52 [95% CI: 0.3, 0.91]). Fewer LV-GCA patients presented with cranial manifestations and only 53% met the 1990 ACR Classification Criteria for GCA. Vasculitis was detected most commonly in the thoracic aorta, followed by the subclavian, brachiocephalic trunk and axillary arteries. The mean cumulative prednisolone dose at 12-months was 6056.5mg for LV-GCA patients, relapse rates were similar between LV- and C-GCA patients, and 12% of deaths in LV-GCA patients could be directly attributed to an LV complication. CONCLUSION Patients with LV-GCA have distinct disease features when compared to C-GCA, and this has implications on diagnosis, treatment strategies and surveillance of long-term sequalae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suellen Anne Lyne
- University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide 5005, South Australia, Australia; Rheumatology Department, Level 5 the Tower Block, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 28, Woodville road, Woodville 5011, South Australia, Australia; Rheumatology Department, Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders Drive, Bedford Park 5042, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Carlee Ruediger
- University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide 5005, South Australia, Australia; Rheumatology Department, Level 5 the Tower Block, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 28, Woodville road, Woodville 5011, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Lester
- University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide 5005, South Australia, Australia; Rheumatology Department, Level 5 the Tower Block, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 28, Woodville road, Woodville 5011, South Australia, Australia
| | - Gursimran Kaur
- Rheumatology Department, Christchurch Hospital, 2, Riccarton avenue, Christchurch Central City, 4710 Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Lisa Stamp
- Rheumatology Department, Christchurch Hospital, 2, Riccarton avenue, Christchurch Central City, 4710 Christchurch, New Zealand; University of Otago, Christchurch Hospital, 2, Riccarton avenue, Christchurch Central City, 4710 Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Ernst Michael Shanahan
- Rheumatology Department, Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders Drive, Bedford Park 5042, South Australia, Australia; Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park 5042, South Australia, Australia
| | - Catherine Louise Hill
- University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide 5005, South Australia, Australia; Rheumatology Department, Level 5 the Tower Block, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 28, Woodville road, Woodville 5011, South Australia, Australia; Rheumatology Department, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Port Road, Adelaide 5000, South Australia, Australia
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Moreel L, Betrains A, Doumen M, Molenberghs G, Vanderschueren S, Blockmans D. Diagnostic yield of combined cranial and large vessel PET/CT, ultrasound and MRI in giant cell arteritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Autoimmun Rev 2023; 22:103355. [PMID: 37146926 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the diagnostic accuracy of combined cranial and large vessel imaging by PET/CT, ultrasound and MRI for giant cell arteritis (GCA). METHODS PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were searched from inception till August, 312,022. Studies were included if they involved patients with suspected GCA and assessed the diagnostic accuracy of combined cranial and large vessel imaging by PET/CT, ultrasound or MRI with the final clinical diagnosis as reference standard. RESULTS Eleven (1578 patients), 3 (149 patients) and 0 studies were included for the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound, PET/CT and MRI, respectively. Combined cranial and large vessel ultrasound had a sensitivity of 86% (76-92%) and specificity of 96% (92-98%). PET/CT of both cranial and large vessels yielded a sensitivity of 82% (61-93%) and specificity of 79% (60-90%). No studies assessed both PET/CT and ultrasound, which precluded head-to-head comparison. Addition of large vessel ultrasound to ultrasound of the temporal arteries (7 studies) significantly increased sensitivity (91% versus 80%, p < 0.001) without decrease in specificity (96% versus 95%, p = 0.57). Evaluating cranial arteries in addition to large vessels on PET/CT (3 studies) tended to increase the sensitivity (82% versus 68%, p = 0.07) without decrease in specificity (81% versus 79%, p = 0.70). CONCLUSION Combined cranial and large vessel ultrasound and PET/CT provided excellent accuracy for the diagnosis of GCA. Either PET/CT or ultrasound may be preferred depending on setting, expertise and clinical presentation. The diagnostic accuracy of combined cranial and large vessel MRI needs to be determined in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien Moreel
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Albrecht Betrains
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michaël Doumen
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Geert Molenberghs
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics (I-BioStat), University of Leuven and Hasselt University, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Steven Vanderschueren
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; European Reference Network for Immunodeficiency, Autoinflammatory, Autoimmune and Pediatric Rheumatic disease (ERN-RITA)
| | - Daniel Blockmans
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; European Reference Network for Immunodeficiency, Autoinflammatory, Autoimmune and Pediatric Rheumatic disease (ERN-RITA)
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Bull Haaversen AC, Brekke LK, Kermani TA, Molberg Ø, Diamantopoulos AP. Extended ultrasound examination identifies more large vessel involvement in patients with giant cell arteritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2023; 62:1887-1894. [PMID: 35997556 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare limited with a more extended ultrasound examination (anteromedial ultrasound, A2-ultrasound) to detect large vessel (LV) involvement in patients with newly diagnosed GCA. METHODS Patients with new-onset GCA were included at the time of diagnosis. All patients were examined using limited ultrasound (ultrasound of the axillary artery as visualized in the axilla) and an extended A2-ultrasound method (which also includes the carotid, vertebral, subclavian and proximal axillary arteries), in addition to temporal artery ultrasound. RESULTS One hundred and thirty-three patients were included in the study. All patients fulfilled the criteria according to a proposed extension of the 1990 ACR classification criteria for GCA and had a positive ultrasound examination at diagnosis. Ninety-three of the 133 GCA patients (69.9%) had LV involvement when examined by extended A2-ultrasound, compared with only 56 patients (42.1%) by limited ultrasound (P < 0.001). Twelve patients (9.0%) had vasculitis of the vertebral arteries as the only LVs involved. Five patients (3.8%) would have been missed as having GCA if only limited ultrasound was performed. Forty patients (30.0%) had isolated cranial GCA, 21 patients (15.8%) had isolated large vessel GCA and 72 patients (54.1%) had mixed-GCA. CONCLUSION Extended A2-ultrasound examination identified more patients with LV involvement than the limited ultrasound method. However, extended A2-ultrasound requires high expertise and high-end equipment and should be performed by ultrasonographers with adequate training.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lene Kristin Brekke
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Tanaz A Kermani
- Department of Rheumatology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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19
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Diagnostic validity of ultrasound including extra-cranial arteries in giant cell arteritis. Clin Rheumatol 2023; 42:1163-1169. [PMID: 36357632 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-022-06420-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Color Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) of the temporal arteries (TA) is becoming the first test to be performed for suspected giant cell arteritis (GCA). Our aim was to assess the added value of including CDUS of large vessels (LV) in the diagnosis of GCA. METHODS We performed an observational and retrospective study of consecutive patients with suspected GCA. Baseline CDUS of the TA and LV (axillary, subclavian, and carotid) were conducted. We defined the CDUS finding as positive if the halo sign was present. RESULTS Of 198 patients with suspected GCA, 87 were eventually diagnosed with GCA: 45 (51.7%) had a cranial pattern exclusively, 31 (35.6%) had both a cranial and an LV pattern, and 11 (12.6%) had an isolated LV pattern. CDUS of the TA had a sensitivity of 83.9%, specificity of 97.3%, and positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) of 96.1% and 88.5%, respectively. When LV was added, sensitivity increased to 96.6% and NPV to 98.2%. Specificity was 97.3% and PPV was 96.6%. As for LVs, the axillary, subclavian, and carotid arteries were involved in 87.8%, 77.4%, and 34.4%, respectively. Isolated axillary examination resulted in a loss of 12.2% of patients with LV involvement; however, inclusion of the axillary and subclavian arteries retained 100% of patients with LV involvement. CONCLUSIONS Detection of GCA by ultrasound should routinely include examinations of the TA and LV (at least the axillary and subclavian arteries) to improve diagnostic accuracy. More than 12% of patients in our cohort had isolated LV involvement. Key Points • Extracranial involvement in GCA is very common: half of patients have extracranial vasculitis and more than 12% isolated LV involvement that can be demonstrated with CDUS. • Adding a CDUS examination of LV to TA increased sensitivity (from 83.9 to 96.6%) and the negative predictive value (from 88.5 to 98.2%) for diagnosis of GCA. • In our cohort, if we only examined the axillary arteries, 12.2% of the CGA with LV involvement would not have been diagnosed. • We propose a CDUS protocol that includes examination of the TA and LV (at least the axillary and subclavian arteries) routinely in cases of suspected GCA.
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Slart RHJA, Nienhuis PH, Glaudemans AWJM, Brouwer E, Gheysens O, van der Geest KSM. Role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in Large Vessel Vasculitis and Polymyalgia Rheumatica. J Nucl Med 2023; 64:515-521. [PMID: 37011940 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.122.265016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic vasculitides comprise a group of autoimmune diseases affecting blood vessels, including large vessel vasculitis (LVV) and medium-sized vessel vasculitis such as giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK). GCA frequently overlaps with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), a rheumatic inflammatory condition affecting bursae, tendons or tendon sheaths, and joints. 18F-FDG PET/CT plays an important role in the diagnostic work-up of GCA, PMR, and TAK and is increasingly used to monitor treatment response. This continuing education article provides up-to-date guidance on the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with LVV, medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and PMR. It provides a general introduction on the clinical presentation and challenges in the diagnostic work-up of LVV and medium-sized vessel vasculitis, with a focus on the 2 major LVV subtypes: GCA, including PMR, and TAK. Next, practice points to perform and interpret the results of 18F-FDG PET/CT are described in line with the published procedure recommendations. Furthermore, the diagnostic performance and its role for treatment monitoring are discussed, taking into account recent international recommendations for the use of imaging in LVV and medium-sized vessel vasculitis in clinical practice. This is illustrated by several clinically representative PET/CT scan examples. Lastly, knowledge of limitations and pitfalls is essential to understand the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in LVV, medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and PMR. Challenges and opportunities, as well as future research and conclusions, are highlighted. Learning objectives provide up-to-date guidance for the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with suspected LVV, medium-sized vessel vasculitis, and PMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riemer H J A Slart
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands;
- Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter H Nienhuis
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Andor W J M Glaudemans
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Olivier Gheysens
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc and Institute of Clinical and Experimental Research, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kornelis S M van der Geest
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; and
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21
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Schmidt WA. Vascular ultrasound in rheumatology practice. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol 2023; 37:101847. [PMID: 37419758 DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2023.101847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatologists are increasingly using vascular ultrasound. Several guidelines now recommend ultrasound as the first diagnostic modality in giant cell arteritis (GCA). The German curriculum for rheumatology training has recently included ultrasound for the acute diagnosis of vasculitis. Recent studies have shown that ultrasound of temporal, axillary, subclavian, and vertebral arteries has sensitivities and specificities of >90%. Vascular ultrasound detects subclinical GCA in approximately 20% of patients with "pure" polymyalgia rheumatica. GCA fast-track clinics might regularly include these patients. A new score based on the intima-media thickness of the temporal and axillary arteries allows the monitoring of structural changes with treatment. The score decreases faster for the temporal arteries than it does for the axillary arteries. Measuring the diameter of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch might become a fast and cost-effective tool for the long-term monitoring of aortic aneurysms in extracranial GCA. Vascular ultrasound also has a role for Takayasu arteritis, thrombosis, Behçet's syndrome, and Raynaud's phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang A Schmidt
- Immanuel Krankenhaus Berlin, Medical Center for Rheumatology Berlin-Buch, Lindenberger Weg 19, 13125 Berlin, Germany.
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22
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Nielsen AW, Frølund LL, Våben C, Bonde AR, Gormsen LC, de Thurah AL, Hauge EM, Keller KK. Response: Co-occurrence of giant cell arteritis in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica. Reply letter to Castañeda and González-Gay (Letter to the Editor: Concurrent baseline diagnosis of giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica - A systematic review and meta-analysis. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2022;56:152069.). Semin Arthritis Rheum 2023; 58:152155. [PMID: 36580855 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2022.152155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Wiggers Nielsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Diagnostic Centre, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Falkevej 1, Silkeborg 8600, Denmark.
| | - Line Lier Frølund
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Christoffer Våben
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Asta Roos Bonde
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Lars Christian Gormsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Annette Ladefoged de Thurah
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Kresten Krarup Keller
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
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Nassarmadji K, Vanjak A, Bourdin V, Champion K, Burlacu R, Mouly S, Sène D, Comarmond C. 18-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for large vessel vasculitis in clinical practice. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1103752. [PMID: 36744139 PMCID: PMC9892645 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1103752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis, prognostic assessment, and monitoring disease activity in patients with large vessel vasculitis (LVV) can be challenging. Early recognition of LVV and treatment adaptation is essential because vascular complications (aneurysm, dilatations, ischemic complications) or treatment related side effects can occur frequently in these patients. 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (2-[18F]FDG-PET/CT) is increasingly used to diagnose, follow, and evaluate treatment response in LVV. In this review, we aimed to summarize the current evidence on the value of 2-[18F]FDG-PET/CT for diagnosis, follow, and treatment monitoring in LVV.
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Monjo-Henry I, Fernández-Fernández E, Mostaza JM, Lahoz C, Molina-Collada J, de Miguel E. Ultrasound halo count in the differential diagnosis of atherosclerosis and large vessel giant cell arteritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2023; 25:23. [PMID: 36788547 PMCID: PMC9926809 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the diagnostic discriminant validity between large vessel giant cell arteritis (LV-GCA) and atherosclerosis using ultrasound (US) intima-media thickness (IMT) measurements. METHODS We included 44 patients with LV-GCA and 42 with high-risk atherosclerosis. US examinations of the axillary, subclavian, and common carotid arteries (CCA) were systematically performed using a MylabX8 system (Genoa, Italy) with a 4-15-MHz probe. IMT ≥ 1 mm was accepted as pathological. RESULTS The LV-GCA cohort included 24 females and 20 males with a mean age of 72.8 ± 7.6 years. The atherosclerosis group included 25 males and 17 females with a mean age of 70.8 ± 6.5 years. The mean IMT values of all arteries included were significantly higher in LV-GCA than in atherosclerosis. Among LV-GCA patients, IMT ≥ 1 mm was seen in 31 axillary, 30 subclavian, and 28 CCA. In the atherosclerotic cohort, 17 (38.6%) had IMT ≥ 1 mm with axillary involvement in 2 patients, subclavian in 3 patients, carotid distal in 14 patients (5 bilateral), and isolated carotid proximal affectation in 1 case. A cutoff point greater than 1 pathological vessel in the summative count of axillary and subclavian arteries or at least 3 vessels in the count of six vessels, including CCA, showed a precision upper 95% for GCA diagnosis. CONCLUSION The IMT is higher in LV-GCA than in atherosclerosis. The proposed US halo count achieves an accuracy of > 95% for the differential diagnosis between LV-GCA and atherosclerosis. The axillary and subclavian arteries have higher discriminatory power, while carotid involvement is less specific in the differential diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Monjo-Henry
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Elisa Fernández-Fernández
- grid.81821.320000 0000 8970 9163Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - José María Mostaza
- grid.81821.320000 0000 8970 9163Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Lahoz
- grid.81821.320000 0000 8970 9163Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Molina-Collada
- grid.410526.40000 0001 0277 7938Rheumatology Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eugenio de Miguel
- grid.81821.320000 0000 8970 9163Rheumatology Department, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
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Kirby C, Flood R, Mullan R, Murphy G, Kane D. Evolution of ultrasound in giant cell arteritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:981659. [PMID: 36262280 PMCID: PMC9574015 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.981659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) is being increasingly used to diagnose Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). The traditional diagnostic Gold Standard has been temporal artery biopsy (TAB), but this is expensive, invasive, has a false-negative rate as high as 60% and has little impact on clinical decision-making. A non-compressible halo with a thickened intima-media complex (IMC) is the sonographic hallmark of GCA. The superficial temporal arteries (STA) and axillary arteries (AA) are the most consistently inflamed arteries sonographically and imaging protocols for evaluating suspected GCA should include at least these two arterial territories. Studies evaluating temporal artery ultrasound (TAUS) have varied considerably in size and methodology with results showing wide discrepancies in sensitivity (9–100%), specificity (66–100%), positive predictive value (36–100%) and negative predictive value (33–100%). Bilateral halos increase sensitivity as does the incorporation of pre-test probability, while prior corticosteroid use decreases sensitivity. Quantifying sonographic vasculitis using Halo Counts and Halo Scores can predict disease extent/severity, risk of specific complications and likelihood of treatment response. Regression of the Halo sign has been observed from as little as 2 days to as late as 7 months after initiation of immunosuppressive treatment and occurs at different rates in STAs than AAs. US is more sensitive than TAB and has comparable sensitivity to MRI and PET/CT. It is time-efficient, cost-effective and allows for the implementation of fast-track GCA clinics which substantially mitigate the risk of irreversible blindness. Algorithms incorporating combinations of imaging modalities can achieve a 100% sensitivity and specificity for a diagnosis of GCA. US should be a standard first line investigation in routine clinical care of patients with suspected GCA with TAB reserved only for those having had a normal US in the context of a high pre-test probability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colm Kirby
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland,Department of Rheumatology, Cork University Hospital and University College Cork, Cork, Ireland,*Correspondence: Colm Kirby
| | - Rachael Flood
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ronan Mullan
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Grainne Murphy
- Department of Rheumatology, Cork University Hospital and University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - David Kane
- Department of Rheumatology, Tallaght University Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Concurrent baseline diagnosis of giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica - A systematic review and meta-analysis. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2022; 56:152069. [PMID: 35858507 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2022.152069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) can be concurrent diseases. We aimed to estimate the point-prevalence of concurrent GCA and PMR. Additionally, an incidence rate (IR) of GCA presenting after PMR diagnosis in patients was estimated. METHODS Two authors performed a systematic literature search, data extraction and risk of bias assessment independently. Studies assessing cohorts of patients presenting with both GCA and PMR were included. The outcomes were point-prevalence of concurrent GCA and PMR and IR for development of GCA after PMR diagnosis. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate a pooled prevalence of concurrent PMR and GCA. RESULTS We identified 29 studies investigating concurrent GCA and PMR. Only two studies applied imaging systematically to diagnose GCA and none to diagnose PMR. GCA presenting after PMR diagnosis was assessed in 12 studies but imaging was not applied systematically. The point-prevalence of concurrent GCA present at PMR diagnosis ranged from 6%-66%. The pooled estimate of the point-prevalence from the meta-analysis was 22%. The point-prevalence of PMR present at GCA diagnosis ranged from 16%-65%. The pooled estimate of the point-prevalence from the meta-analysis was 42%. The IR ranged between 2-78 cases of GCA presenting after PMR per 1000 person-years. CONCLUSION This review and meta-analysis support that concurrent GCA and PMR is frequently present at the time of diagnosis. Additionally, we present the current evidence of GCA presenting in patients after PMR diagnosis. These results emphasize the need for studies applying imaging modalities to diagnose GCA.
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Molina-Collada J, Castrejón I, Rivera J, Martínez-Barrio J, Nieto-González JC, López K, Montero F, Trives L, González C, Álvaro-Gracia JM. The Role of Ultrasound and FDG-PET/CT to Detect Extracranial Artery Involvement in Patients with Suspected Large Vessel Vasculitis. Mod Rheumatol 2022; 33:549-556. [PMID: 35661221 DOI: 10.1093/mr/roac058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the accuracy of ultrasound (US) versus FDG-PET/CT to identify extracranial involvement in suspected large vessel vasculitis (LVV) patients. METHODS Retrospective observational study of patients referred to our US fast track clinic with suspected LVV. All patients underwent US exam within 24 hours per protocol. FDG-PET/CT was performed according to clinician criteria. The gold standard for LVV diagnosis was clinical confirmation after 6 months. RESULTS Of the 113 patients included (74.3% female, mean age 74 years), 37(32.7%) were diagnosed of LVV after 6 months. Sensitivity and specificity of US was 86.5% and 96.1%, respectively (85.7% and 87.1% for intracranial and 94.1% and 80.2% for extracanial arteries, respectively). Only 12(42.9%) of 28 patients undergoing a FDG-PET/CT per clinician criteria, showed positive findings. Sensitivity and specificity of FDG-PET/CT for LVV was 61.1% and 90%, respectively (55.6% and 63.2% for intracranial and 84.6% and 93.3% for extacranial arteries). Taking FDG-PET/CT as the reference, US showed extracranial inflammation in 10/12(83.3%) and detected 2(12.5%) additional cases of extracranial involvement with negative FDG-PET/CT. Conversely, FDG-PET/CT showed extracranial inflammation in 2 patients with negative US (1 isolated aortitis and 1 aortoiliac involvement). FDG-PET/CT showed cranial artery uptake in none of patients. CONCLUSIONS US and FDG-PET/CT are both valid tools to detect extracranial involvement. Presence of US extracranial artery inflammation is consistent with FDG-PET/CT examination, although a negative US scan does not rule out extracranial involvement. Our data support the use of US as first-line investigation in patients suspected of cranial, but also extracranial LVV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Molina-Collada
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Castrejón
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Rivera
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Martínez-Barrio
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Nieto-González
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Katerine López
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Montero
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Trives
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos González
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - José María Álvaro-Gracia
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
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Ughi N, Padoan R, Crotti C, Sciascia S, Carrara G, Zanetti A, Rozza D, Monti S, Camellino D, Muratore F, Emmi G, Quartuccio L, Morbelli S, El Aoufy K, Tonolo S, Caporali R, De Vita S, Salvarani C, Cimmino M. The Italian Society of Rheumatology clinical practice guidelines for the management of large vessel vasculitis. Reumatismo 2022; 73. [DOI: 10.4081/reumatismo.2021.1470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Since of the last publication of last recommendations on primary large-vessel vasculitis (LVV) endorsed by the Italian Society of Rheumatology (SIR) in 2012, new evidence emerged regarding the diagnosis and the treatment with conventional and biologic immunosuppressive drugs. The associated potential change of clinical care supported the need to update the original recommendations. Methods: Using the grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE)-ADOLOPMENT framework, a systematic literature review was performed to update the evidence supporting the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) guidelines on LVV as reference. A multidisciplinary panel of 12 expert clinicians, a trained nurse, and a patients’ representative discussed the recommendation in cooperation with an Evidence Review Team. Sixty-one stakeholders were consulted to externally review and rate the recommendations. Results: Twelve recommendations were formulated. A suspected diagnosis of LVV should be confirmed by imaging or histology. In active GCA or TAK, the prompt commencement of high dose of oral glucocorticoids (40-60 mg prednisone-equivalent per day) is strongly recommended to induce clinical remission. In selected patients with GCA (e.g., refractory or relapsing disease or patients at risk of glucocorticoid related adverse effects) the use of an adjunctive therapy (tocilizumab or methotrexate) is recommended. In all patients diagnosed with TAK, adjunctive therapies, such as conventional synthetic or biological immunosuppressants, should be given in combination with glucocorticoids. Conclusions: The new set of SIR recommendations was formulated in order to provide a guidance on both diagnosis and treatment of patients suspected of or with a definite diagnosis of LVV.
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Chrysidis S, Døhn UM, Terslev L, Fredberg U, Lorenzen T, Christensen R, Larsen K, Diamantopoulos AP. Diagnostic accuracy of vascular ultrasound in patients with suspected giant cell arteritis (EUREKA): a prospective, multicentre, non-interventional, cohort study. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2021; 3:e865-e873. [PMID: 38287632 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(21)00246-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Temporal artery biopsy is considered the diagnostic gold standard for giant cell arteritis, despite approximately 39% of patients who are negative for the condition by biopsy subsequently being given a clinical diagnosis of giant cell arteritis. We aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound examination in patients with suspected giant cell arteritis. METHODS In this prospective, multicentre, non-interventional, cohort study (evaluation of ultrasound's role in patients suspected of having extracranial and cranial giant cell arteritis; EUREKA), we consecutively recruited patients aged 50 years or older, with clinically suspected giant cell arteritis from three Danish hospitals (South West Jutland Hospital in Esbjerg, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, and Rigshospitalet, Glostrup). Participants had a bilateral ultrasound of the temporal, facial, common carotid, and axillary arteries. Ultrasounds were done by ultrasonographers who were systematically trained in vascular ultrasound using appropriate equipment and settings. Participants then had a temporal artery biopsy within 7 days of initiation of corticosteroid treatment. A blinded ultrasound expert assessed all ultrasound images. Ultrasound vasculitis was defined in cranial arteries as a homogeneous, hypoechoic, intimamedia complex thickness and a positive compression sign and as a homogeneous intimamedia complex of 1 mm in thickness or wider in the axillary arteries and of 1·5 mm thickness or wider in the common carotid artery. Participants were followed up at 6 months. During this 6 month period, clinicians were able to collect data from all clinical examinations to enable a full clinical diagnosis at 6 months. Clinical diagnosis was based on the expert opinion of the treating rheumatologist. The diagnostic criterion standard was diagnosis confirmed after 6 months of follow-up. We used logistic regression analyses to calculate the odds ratio and 95% CI of ultrasound as a predictor for giant cell arteritis. FINDINGS Between April 1, 2014, and July 31, 2017, 118 patients were screened for inclusion, of whom 106 had both ultrasound examinations and an eligible temporal artery biopsy and were included in the intention-to-diagnose population. The mean age was 72·7 years (SD 7·9), 63 (59%) participants were women, and 43 (41%) were men. Temporal artery biopsy was positive in 46 (43%) of 106 patients, and 62 (58%) of 106 patients had a clinically confirmed diagnosis of giant cell arteritis at 6 months (temporal artery biopsy sensitivity 74% [95% CI 62-84], specificity 100% [95% CI 92-100]). Cranial artery ultrasound was positive in all patients who had a positive temporal artery biopsy, and seven (58%) of 12 patients who were positive by ultrasound and negative by temporal artery biopsy were confirmed to have large-vessel giant cell arteritis via other imaging methods. The sensitivity of ultrasound diagnosis of giant cell arteritis was 94% (84-98) and specificity was 84% (70-93). Logistic regression analysis confirmed that ultrasound was the strongest baseline predictor for a clinically confirmed diagnosis of giant cell arteritis at 6 months (crude odds ratio 76·6 [95% CI 21·0-280·0]; adjusted for sex and age 141·0 [27·0-743·0]). INTERPRETATION Vascular ultrasound might effectively replace temporal artery biopsy as a first-line diagnostic method in patients suspected of having giant cell arteritis when done by systematically trained ultrasonographers using appropriate equipment and settings. FUNDING The Institute for Regional Research at Hospital of Southwest Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros Chrysidis
- Research Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Research, Hospital of South West Jutland, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; OPEN, Odense Patient Data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Uffe Møller Døhn
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Lene Terslev
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Ulrich Fredberg
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Diagnostic Centre, University Research Clinic of Innovative Patient Pathways, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Denmark; Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tove Lorenzen
- Diagnostic Centre, University Research Clinic of Innovative Patient Pathways, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Denmark
| | - Robin Christensen
- Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark; Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Knud Larsen
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Hospital of Southwest Denmark, Denmark
| | - Andreas P Diamantopoulos
- Department of Rheumatology, Martina Hansen Hospital, Baerum, Norway; Department of Rheumatology, Akershus University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Jianu DC, Jianu SN, Dan TF, Munteanu G, Bîrdac CD, Motoc AGM, Docu Axelerad A, Petrica L, Gogu AE. Ultrasound Technologies and the Diagnosis of Giant Cell Arteritis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121801. [PMID: 34944617 PMCID: PMC8698303 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a primary autoimmune vasculitis that specifically affects medium-sized extracranial arteries, like superficial temporal arteries (TAs). The most important data to be considered for the ultrasound (US) diagnosis of temporal arteritis are stenosis, acute occlusions and “dark halo” sign, which represent the edema of the vascular wall. The vessel wall thickening of large vessels in GCA can be recognized by the US, which has high sensitivity and is facile to use. Ocular complications of GCA are common and consist especially of anterior arterial ischemic optic neuropathies or central retinal artery occlusion with sudden, painless, and sharp loss of vision in the affected eye. Color Doppler imaging of the orbital vessels (showing low-end diastolic velocities and a high resistance index) is essential to quickly differentiate the mechanism of ocular involvement (arteritic versus non-arteritic), since the characteristics of TAs on US do not correspond with ocular involvement on GCA. GCA should be cured immediately with systemic corticosteroids to avoid further visual loss of the eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragoș Cătălin Jianu
- Department of Neurosciences-Division of Neurology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.J.); (A.E.G.)
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- First Department of Neurology, Pius Brânzeu Emergency County Hospital, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Silviana Nina Jianu
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Pathology, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Traian Flavius Dan
- Department of Neurosciences-Division of Neurology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.J.); (A.E.G.)
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- First Department of Neurology, Pius Brânzeu Emergency County Hospital, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (T.F.D.); (G.M.); Tel.: +40-745035178 (T.F.D.); +40-746151426 (G.M.)
| | - Georgiana Munteanu
- Department of Neurosciences-Division of Neurology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.J.); (A.E.G.)
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- First Department of Neurology, Pius Brânzeu Emergency County Hospital, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Centre for Molecular Research in Nephrology and Vascular Pathology, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
- Correspondence: (T.F.D.); (G.M.); Tel.: +40-745035178 (T.F.D.); +40-746151426 (G.M.)
| | - Claudiu Dumitru Bîrdac
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- First Department of Neurology, Pius Brânzeu Emergency County Hospital, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Andrei Gheorghe Marius Motoc
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Any Docu Axelerad
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- Department of Neurology, General Medicine Faculty, Ovidius University, 900527 Constanța, Romania
| | - Ligia Petrica
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- Department of Internal Medicine II-Division of Nephrology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
| | - Anca Elena Gogu
- Department of Neurosciences-Division of Neurology, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (D.C.J.); (A.E.G.)
- Centre for Cognitive Research in Neuropsychiatric Pathology (NeuroPsy-Cog), Department of Neurosciences, Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timișoara, Romania; (C.D.B.); (A.G.M.M.); (A.D.A.); (L.P.)
- First Department of Neurology, Pius Brânzeu Emergency County Hospital, 300041 Timișoara, Romania
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Therkildsen P, de Thurah A, Nielsen BD, Hansen IT, Eldrup N, Nørgaard M, Hauge EM. Increased risk of thoracic aortic complications among patients with giant cell arteritis: a nationwide, population-based cohort study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:2931-2941. [PMID: 34918058 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the risk of aortic aneurysms (AA), aortic dissections (AD) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) among patients with GCA. METHODS In this nationwide, population-based cohort study using Danish national health registries, we identified all incident GCA patients ≥50 years between 1996 and 2018 who redeemed three or more prescriptions for prednisolone. Index date was the date of redeeming the third prednisolone prescription. Case definition robustness was checked through sensitivity analysis. We included general population referents matched 1:10 by age, sex and calendar time. Using a pseudo-observation approach, we calculated 5-, 10- and 15-year cumulative incidence proportions (CIP) and relative risks (RR) of AA, AD and PAD with death as a competing risk. RESULTS We included 9908 GCA patients and 98 204 referents. The 15-year CIP of thoracic AA, abdominal AA, AD and PAD in the GCA cohort were 1.9% (95% CI 1.5, 2.2), 1.8% (1.4-2.2), 1.0% (0.7-1.2) and 4.8% (4.2-5.3). Compared with the referents, the 15-year RR were 11.2 (7.41-16.9) for thoracic AA, 6.86 (4.13-11.4) for AD, 1.04 (0.83-1.32) for abdominal AA and 1.53 (1.35-1.74) for PAD. Among GCA patients, female sex, age below 70 years and positive temporal artery findings were risk factors for developing thoracic AA. The median time to thoracic AA was 7.5 years (interquartile range 4.4-11.2) with a number needed to be screened of 250 (167-333), 91 (71-111) and 53 (45-67) after 5, 10 and 15 years. CONCLUSION Patients with GCA have a markedly increased risk of developing thoracic AA and AD, but no increased risk of abdominal AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Therkildsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus
| | - Annette de Thurah
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus
| | | | - Ib Tønder Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus
| | - Nikolaj Eldrup
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen
| | - Mette Nørgaard
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital.,Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus
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Lecler A, Hage R, Charbonneau F, Vignal C, Sené T, Picard H, Leturcq T, Zuber K, Belangé G, Affortit A, Sadik JC, Savatovsky J, Clavel G. Validation of a multimodal algorithm for diagnosing giant cell arteritis with imaging. Diagn Interv Imaging 2021; 103:103-110. [PMID: 34663548 DOI: 10.1016/j.diii.2021.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to identify which combination of imaging modalities should be used to obtain the best diagnostic performance for the non-invasive diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). MATERIALS AND METHODS This IRB-approved prospective single-center study enrolled participants presenting with a suspected diagnosis of GCA from December 2014 to October 2017. Participants underwent high-resolution 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), temporal and extra-cranial arteries ultrasound and retinal angiography (RA), prior to temporal artery biopsy (TAB). Diagnostic accuracy of each imaging modality alone, then a combination of several imaging modalities, was evaluated. Several algorithms were constructed to test optimal combinations using McNemar test. RESULTS Forty-five participants (24 women, 21 men) with mean age of 75.4 ± 16 (SD) years (range: 59-94 years) were enrolled; of these 43/45 (96%) had ophthalmological symptoms. Diagnosis of GCA was confirmed in 25/45 (56%) patients. Sensitivity and specificity of MRI, ultrasound and RA alone were 100% (25/25; 95% CI: 86-100) and 86% (19/22; 95% CI: 65-97), 88% (22/25; 95% CI: 69-97) and 84% (16/19; 95% CI: 60-97), 94% (15/16; 95% CI: 70-100) and 74% (14/19; 95% CI: 49-91), respectively. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive and negative predictive values ranged from 95 to 100% (95% CI: 77-100), 67 to 100% (95% CI: 38-100), 81 to 100% (95% CI: 61-100) and 91 to 100% (95% CI: 59-100) when combining several imaging tests, respectively. The diagnostic algorithm with the overall best diagnostic performance was the one starting with MRI, followed either by ultrasound or RA, yielding 100% sensitivity (22/22; 95% CI: 85-100%) 100% (15/15; 95% CI: 78-100) and 100% accuracy (37/37; 95% CI: 91-100). CONCLUSION The use of MRI as the first imaging examination followed by either ultrasound or RA reaches high degrees of performance for the diagnosis of GCA and is recommended in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustin Lecler
- Department of Radiology, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France.
| | - Rabih Hage
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | | | - Catherine Vignal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Thomas Sené
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Hervé Picard
- Clinical Research Unit, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Tifenn Leturcq
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Kevin Zuber
- Clinical Research Unit, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Georges Belangé
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Aude Affortit
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Claude Sadik
- Department of Radiology, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Julien Savatovsky
- Department of Radiology, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
| | - Gaëlle Clavel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rothschild Hospital Foundation, 75019 Paris, France
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Sebastian A, Coath F, Innes S, Jackson J, van der Geest KSM, Dasgupta B. Role of the halo sign in the assessment of giant cell arteritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2021; 5:rkab059. [PMID: 34514295 PMCID: PMC8421813 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkab059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of the halo sign in the assessment of GCA. Methods A systematic literature review was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane central register databases up to August 2020. Studies informing on the sensitivity and specificity of the US halo sign for GCA (index test) were selected. Studies with a minimum of five participants were included. Study articles using clinical criteria, imaging such as PET-CT and/or temporal artery biopsy (TAB) as the reference standards were selected. Meta-analysis was conducted with a bivariate model. Results The initial search yielded 4023 studies. Twenty-three studies (patients n = 2711) met the inclusion criteria. Prospective (11 studies) and retrospective (12 studies) studies in academic and non-academic centres were included. Using clinical diagnosis as the standard (18 studies) yielded a pooled sensitivity of 67% (95% CI: 51, 80) and a specificity of 95% (95% CI: 89, 98%). This gave a positive and negative likelihood ratio for the diagnosis of GCA of 14.2 (95% CI: 5.7, 35.5) and 0.375 (95% CI: 0.22, 0.54), respectively. Using TAB as the standard (15 studies) yielded a pooled sensitivity of 63% (95% CI: 50, 75) and a specificity of 90% (95% CI: 81, 95). Conclusion The US halo sign is a sensitive and specific approach for GCA assessment and plays a pivotal role in diagnosis of GCA in routine clinical practice. Registration PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020202179.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alwin Sebastian
- Department of Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Westcliff-On-Sea.,School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex
| | - Fiona Coath
- Department of Rheumatology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Sue Innes
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex
| | - Jo Jackson
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex
| | - Kornelis S M van der Geest
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Department of Rheumatology, Southend University Hospital, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Westcliff-On-Sea.,School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, Essex
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Andel PM, Chrysidis S, Geiger J, Haaversen A, Haugeberg G, Myklebust G, Nielsen BD, Diamantopoulos A. Diagnosing Giant Cell Arteritis: A Comprehensive Practical Guide for the Practicing Rheumatologist. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:4958-4971. [PMID: 34255830 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common large vessel vasculitis in the elderly population. In recent years, advanced imaging has changed the way GCA can be diagnosed in many locations. The GCA fast-track clinic (FTC) approach combined with ultrasound (US) examination allows prompt treatment and diagnosis with high certainty. FTCs have been shown to improve prognosis while being cost effective. However, all diagnostic modalities are highly operator dependent, and in many locations expertise in advanced imaging may not be available. In this paper, we review the current evidence on GCA diagnostics and propose a simple algorithm for diagnosing GCA for use by rheumatologists not working in specialist centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Andel
- Department of Cardiology, Østfold Hospital Trust, Grålum, Norway.,Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Southern Norway, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Stavros Chrysidis
- Department of Rheumatology, Southwest Jutland Hospital Esbjerg, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | - Julia Geiger
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anne Haaversen
- Department of Rheumatology, Martina Hansens Hospital, Bærum, Norway
| | - Glenn Haugeberg
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Southern Norway, Kristiansand, Norway.,Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Geirmund Myklebust
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital of Southern Norway, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Berit D Nielsen
- Department of Medicine, The Regional Hospital in Horsens, Horsens, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Andreas Diamantopoulos
- Department of Rheumatology, Martina Hansens Hospital, Bærum, Norway.,Division of Medicine, Department of Rheumatology, Akershus University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Multimodality Imaging of Large Vessel Vasculitis, From the AJR Special Series on Inflammation. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2021; 218:213-222. [PMID: 34232695 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.21.26150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Large vessel vasculitis (LVV) is a non-infectious inflammation of the large vessels, including the aorta and its main branches. Imaging plays an essential role in diagnosing LVV, given the challenges of tissue biopsy. This article reviews the types of LVV, and the multimodality imaging tools available to establish the diagnosis in patients with LVV. The cornerstone of imaging diagnosis is morphologic assessment using grey-scale ultrasound, combined grey-scale US with color Doppler US, CTA, or MRA. In the last decade, substantial progress has been made in functional and molecular imaging with FDG PET/CT for the diagnosis of LVV. Investigation is ongoing to develop novel MRA techniques and new PET tracers to assess disease activity and to differentiate the various vasculitides. An algorithm is provided to guide imaging technique selection based on the patient's specific clinical presentation.
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Therkildsen P, Nielsen BD, de Thurah A, Hansen IT, Nørgaard M, Hauge EM. All-cause and cause-specific mortality in patients with giant cell arteritis: a nationwide, population-based cohort study. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:1195-1203. [PMID: 34164660 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether giant cell arteritis (GCA) is associated with increased all-cause and cause-specific mortality. METHODS A nationwide, population-based cohort study in Denmark using medical and administrative registries. GCA cases were defined as patients aged ≥50 years from 1996-2018 with a first-time discharge diagnosis of GCA and ≥3 prescriptions for prednisolone within 6 months following diagnosis. Each GCA patient was matched based on age, sex and calendar time to 10 persons without a history of GCA. Index date was the date for the third prednisolone prescription. We used a pseudo-observation approach to calculate all-cause and cause-specific mortality, adjusted risk differences (RDs) and relative risks (RRs). RESULTS We included 9908 GCA patients and 98204 persons from the general population. The median time for GCA patients to redeem the third prednisolone prescription was 74 days (IQR: 49-106). Among GCA patients, the overall mortality was 6.4% (95% CI: 5.9-6.9) 1 year after index date and 45% (95% CI: 44-47) after 10 years. Compared to the reference cohort, adjusted RDs and RRs of deaths in the GCA cohort were 2.2% (95% CI: 1.7-2.7) and 1.49 (95% CI: 1.36-1.64) after 1 year, and 2.1% (95% CI: 1.0-3.3) and 1.03 (95% CI: 1.00-1.05) 10 years after index date. GCA patients had a higher risk of death due to infectious, endocrine, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal diseases. CONCLUSIONS GCA is associated with increased all-cause mortality, particularly within the first year following the diagnosis. Cause-specific mortality indicates that mortality in GCA may in part be due to glucocorticoid-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Therkildsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Berit Dalsgaard Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Internal Medicine, Horsens Regional Hospital, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Annette de Thurah
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ib Tønder Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Nørgaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Nielsen BD, Hansen IT, Keller KK, Therkildsen P, Gormsen LC, Hauge EM. Comment on: Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for detecting large vessel giant cell arteritis using FDG PET/CT as the reference: reply. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:e67-e68. [PMID: 33232482 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Berit Dalsgaard Nielsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Diagnostic Centre, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Ib Tønder Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Philip Therkildsen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lars Christian Gormsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Nuclear Medicine and PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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38
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Tomelleri A, Sebastian A, Dasgupta B. Comment on: Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for detecting large-vessel giant cell arteritis using FDG PET/CT as the reference. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:e66. [PMID: 33232471 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Tomelleri
- Rheumatology Department, Mid and South Essex University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Southend University Hospital, Southend, UK.,Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Alwin Sebastian
- Rheumatology Department, Mid and South Essex University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Southend University Hospital, Southend, UK
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Rheumatology Department, Mid and South Essex University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Southend University Hospital, Southend, UK
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Hop H, Mulder DJ, Sandovici M, Glaudemans AWJM, van Roon AM, Slart RHJA, Brouwer E. Diagnostic value of axillary artery ultrasound in patients with suspected giant cell arteritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 59:3676-3684. [PMID: 32240306 PMCID: PMC7733725 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To compare colour duplex ultrasonography (CDU) findings with axillary 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT findings and to compare the diagnostic performance of temporal and axillary artery CDU with temporal artery CDU alone. Methods Patients suspected of GCA were retrospectively included. Presence of a halo or occlusion was considered a positive CDU finding. FDG-PET/CT-assessed axillary artery involvement was defined as axillary artery FDG uptake higher than liver uptake. The reference was the clinical diagnosis after 6 months, which was based on symptomatology and additional diagnostic tests, with the exception of CDU. Results Of the 113 included patients, GCA was diagnosed in 41. Twenty-eight out of 41 GCA patients underwent a FDG-PET/CT. FDG-PET-assessed extra-cranial GCA was present in 20/41 patients, of which 13 showed axillary involvement on FDG-PET/CT. An axillary halo was found in eight of these 13 patients. Six out of the 20 patients with FDG-PET-assessed GCA showed no axillary involvement on CDU or FDG-PET/CT. Five of them had single artery involvement on FDG-PET/CT (two aorta; three vertebral artery). One patient had an axillary occlusion on CDU, consistent with FDG-PET/CT results. Overall, sensitivity and specificity of temporal artery CDU was 52% (95% CI: 35, 67) and 93% (95% CI: 84, 97), respectively. Adding axillary artery results improved sensitivity to 71% (95% CI: 55, 84), while specificity did not change. Conclusion Presence of an axillary halo or occlusion on CDU is consistent with axillary artery FDG-PET/CT results, but a negative CDU does not rule out axillary involvement. Adding axillary artery assessment to temporal artery assessment may substantially increase the diagnostic performance of CDU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilde Hop
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine
| | - Douwe J Mulder
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine
| | | | - Andor W J M Glaudemans
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen
| | - Arie M van Roon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Vascular Medicine
| | - Riemer H J A Slart
- Medical Imaging Center, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen.,Department of Biomedical Photonic Imaging, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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Chen W, Li J, Fan X, Zhang Y, Wang L, Liu Y, Cui A, Wang L. Application of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e24047. [PMID: 33466157 PMCID: PMC7808548 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000024047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is a series of proliferative diseases of the lymphatic system. Among patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), PTLD is a prevalent complication that severely affects rates of survival. Ultrasound plays an essential role in the early diagnosis of PTLD. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and CEUS-guided biopsy are critical procedures for tumor diagnosis. PATIENT CONCERNS Herein, we report the case of a 40-year-old male patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who received HSCT more than 1 year ago. Sonography revealed a small hypoechoic nodule in the liver four months after HSCT. Eight months after HSCT, larger and more nodules were observed via ultrasound; CT was used to identify the lesions. DIAGNOSES CEUS and CEUS-guided biopsy were performed, and the pathological diagnosis was PTLD. INTERVENTIONS The final clinical diagnosis was PTLD, and cyclophosphamide, epirubicin, and dexamethasone were administered as chemotherapy. OUTCOMES The patient was discharged after his condition improved. CONCLUSION Ultrasound can be used to effectively detect lesions of PTLD early after HSCT. Furthermore, CEUS and CEUS-guided biopsy were effective for early confirmatory diagnoses of PTLD after HSCT.
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van der Geest KSM, Sandovici M, Brouwer E, Mackie SL. Diagnostic Accuracy of Symptoms, Physical Signs, and Laboratory Tests for Giant Cell Arteritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med 2020; 180:1295-1304. [PMID: 32804186 PMCID: PMC7432275 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2020.3050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Importance Current clinical guidelines recommend selecting diagnostic tests for giant cell arteritis (GCA) based on pretest probability that the disease is present, but how pretest probability should be estimated remains unclear. Objective To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of symptoms, physical signs, and laboratory tests for suspected GCA. Data Sources PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched from November 1940 through April 5, 2020. Study Selection Trials and observational studies describing patients with suspected GCA, using an appropriate reference standard for GCA (temporal artery biopsy, imaging test, or clinical diagnosis), and with available data for at least 1 symptom, physical sign, or laboratory test. Data Extraction and Synthesis Screening, full text review, quality assessment, and data extraction by 2 investigators. Diagnostic test meta-analysis used a bivariate model. Main Outcome(s) and Measures Diagnostic accuracy parameters, including positive and negative likelihood ratios (LRs). Results In 68 unique studies (14 037 unique patients with suspected GCA; of 7798 patients with sex reported, 5193 were women [66.6%]), findings associated with a diagnosis of GCA included limb claudication (positive LR, 6.01; 95% CI, 1.38-26.16), jaw claudication (positive LR, 4.90; 95% CI, 3.74-6.41), temporal artery thickening (positive LR, 4.70; 95% CI, 2.65-8.33), temporal artery loss of pulse (positive LR, 3.25; 95% CI, 2.49-4.23), platelet count of greater than 400 × 103/μL (positive LR, 3.75; 95% CI, 2.12-6.64), temporal tenderness (positive LR, 3.14; 95% CI, 1.14-8.65), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate greater than 100 mm/h (positive LR, 3.11; 95% CI, 1.43-6.78). Findings that were associated with absence of GCA included the absence of erythrocyte sedimentation rate of greater than 40 mm/h (negative LR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.08-0.44), absence of C-reactive protein level of 2.5 mg/dL or more (negative LR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.25-0.59), and absence of age over 70 years (negative LR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.27-0.86). Conclusions and Relevance This study identifies the clinical and laboratory features that are most informative for a diagnosis of GCA, although no single feature was strong enough to confirm or refute the diagnosis if taken alone. Combinations of these symptoms might help direct further investigation, such as vascular imaging, temporal artery biopsy, or seeking evaluation for alternative diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kornelis S. M. van der Geest
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Sandovici
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Brouwer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sarah L. Mackie
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, NIHR (National Institute for Health Research) Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS (National Health Service) Trust, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Schäfer VS, Jin L, Schmidt WA. Imaging for Diagnosis, Monitoring, and Outcome Prediction of Large Vessel Vasculitides. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2020; 22:76. [PMID: 32959107 PMCID: PMC7505874 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-020-00955-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review To discuss and summarize the latest evidence on imaging techniques in giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK). This is a report on the performance of ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18-FDG-PET), and other emerging imaging techniques in diagnosis, outcome prediction, and monitoring of disease activity. Recent Findings Imaging techniques have gained an important role for diagnosis of large vessel vasculitides (LVV). As signs of vasculitis, US, MRI, and CT show a homogeneous arterial wall thickening, which is mostly concentric. PET displays increased FDG uptake in inflamed artery walls. US is recommended as the initial imaging modality in GCA. MRI and PET/CT may also detect vasculitis of temporal arteries. For TAK, MRI is recommended as the first imaging modality as it provides a good overview without radiation. Extracranial LVV can be confirmed by all four modalities. In addition, MRI and PET/CT provide consistent examination of the aorta and its branches. New techniques such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound, PET/MRI, and auxiliary methods such as “computer-assisted quantitative analysis” have emerged and need to be further validated. Summary Imaging has partly replaced histology for confirming LVV. Provided experience and adequate training, US, MRI, CT, or PET provide excellent diagnostic accuracy. Imaging results need to complement history and clinical examination. Ongoing studies are evaluating the role of imaging for monitoring and outcome measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Sebastian Schäfer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Lei Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Sebastian A, van der Geest KSM, Coath F, Gondo P, Kayani A, Mackerness C, Hadebe B, Innes S, Jackson J, Dasgupta B. Halo score (temporal artery, its branches and axillary artery) as a diagnostic, prognostic and disease monitoring tool for Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA). BMC Rheumatol 2020; 4:35. [PMID: 32821876 PMCID: PMC7433165 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-020-00136-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a common large vessel vasculitis of the elderly, often associated with sight loss. Glucocorticoids (GC remain the mainstay of treatment, although biologic treatments have been approved. Biomarkers predicting disease severity, relapse rates and damage are lacking in GCA.EULAR recommends ultrasound (US) as the first investigation for suspected GCA. The cardinal US finding, a non-compressible halo, is currently categorised as either negative or positive. However, the extent and severity of this finding may vary.In this study, we hypothesise whether the extent and severity of the halo sign [calculated as a single composite Halo score (HS)] of temporal and axillary arteries may be of diagnostic, prognostic and monitoring importance; whether baseline HS is linked to disease outcomes, relapses and damage; whether HS can stratify GCA patients for individual treatment needs; whether HS can function as an objective monitoring tool during follow up. METHODS This is a prospective, observational study. Suspected GCA Participants will be selected from the GCA FTC at the participating centres in the UK. Informed consent will be obtained, and patients managed as part of standard care. Patients with GCA will have HS (temporal and axillary arteries) measured at baseline and months 1,3,6 and 12 long with routine clinical assessments, blood sampling and patient-reported outcomes (EQ5D). Non-GCA patients will be discharged back to the referral team and will have a telephone interview in 6 months.We aim to recruit 272 suspected GCA referrals which should yield 68 patients (25% of referrals) with confirmed GCA. The recruitment will be completed in 1 year with an estimated total study period of 24 months. DISCUSSION The identification of prognostic factors in GCA is both timely and needed. A prognostic marker, such as the HS, could help to stratify GCA patients for an appropriate treatment regimen. Tocilizumab, an IL-6R blocking agent, switches off the acute phase response (C-Reactive Protein), making it difficult to measure the disease activity. Therefore, an independent HS, and changes in that score during treatment and follow-up, maybe a more objective measure of response compare to patient-reported symptoms and clinical assessment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alwin Sebastian
- Rheumatology, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, UK
- University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Kornelis S. M. van der Geest
- Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Fiona Coath
- Norfolk and Norwich University hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Colney Ln, Norwich, UK
| | - Prisca Gondo
- R&D, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, UK
| | - Abdul Kayani
- Rheumatology, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, UK
| | - Craig Mackerness
- R&D, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, UK
| | - Bernard Hadebe
- R&D, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, UK
| | - Sue Innes
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and exercise sciences, Colchester campus, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Jo Jackson
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and exercise sciences, Colchester campus, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Bhaskar Dasgupta
- Rheumatology, Mid and South Essex University Hospital Groups, Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-On-Sea, Essex, UK
- University of Essex, Colchester, UK
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