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Bilton EJ, Mollan SP. Giant cell arteritis: reviewing the advancing diagnostics and management. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:2365-2373. [PMID: 36788362 PMCID: PMC9927059 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02433-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) is well known to be a critical ischaemic disease that requires immediate medical recognition to initiate treatment and where one in five people still suffer visual loss. The immunopathophysiology has continued to be characterised, and the influencing of ageing in the development of GCA is beginning to be understood. Recent national and international guidelines have supported the directed use of cranial ultrasound to reduce diagnostic delay and improve clinical outcomes. Immediate high dose glucocorticoids remain the standard emergency treatment for GCA, with a number of targeted agents that have been shown in clinical trials to have superior clinical efficacy and steroid sparing effects. The aim of this review was to present the latest advances in GCA that have the potential to influence routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Bilton
- Ophthalmology Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2TH, UK
- INSIGHT Health Data Research hub for eye health, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2TH, UK
| | - Susan P Mollan
- Ophthalmology Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2TH, UK.
- INSIGHT Health Data Research hub for eye health, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2TH, UK.
- Transitional Brain Science, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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2
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Piccus R, Hansen MS, Hamann S, Mollan SP. An update on the clinical approach to giant cell arteritis. Clin Med (Lond) 2022; 22:107-111. [PMID: 35304369 DOI: 10.7861/clinmed.2022-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Recent national and international guidance from rheumatology societies have reflected the advances in evidence for both the investigation and management of giant cell arteritis. Cranial ultrasound reduces diagnostic delay and improves clinical outcomes. Immediate high-dose glucocorticoids remain the standard treatment for giant cell arteritis. Randomised controlled trial evidence using tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist, has been shown to have good clinical efficacy with glucocorticoid sparing effects. Overall patient outcomes appear to be improved by formalising pathways for diagnosis to include clinical experts' opinion early in decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Piccus
- University of Birmingham Medical School, Edgbaston, UK
| | | | | | - Susan P Mollan
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Vrinceanu D, Dumitru M, Banica B, Eftime IS, Patrascu O, Costache A, Cherecheanu MP, Georgescu MG. Role of temporal artery resection in Horton's arteritis (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1099. [PMID: 34504553 PMCID: PMC8383735 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Horton's arteritis is found in the literature under various names, such as temporal arteritis, Horton's disease senile arteritis, granulomatous arteritis or giant cell arteritis (GCA). The pathogenic mechanism is the result of an inflammatory cascade triggered by a still unknown factor that causes dendritic cells in vessels to recruit T cells and macrophages, which form granulomatous infiltrates. The clinical picture consists of a daily headache with temporal localization, with moderate to severe intensity, unilateral or bilateral, with a history of months, years. Other changes may include pain in the cheek or tongue during chewing (claudication), weight loss, generalized fatigue, low-grade fever, and frequent pain in the limbs, in the context of coexisting rheumatic polymyalgia. Visual symptoms represent a special category, involving blurred vision, scotomas, and even sudden blindness. Histopathological examination of the temporal artery biopsy reveals focal thickening of the intima, with interruption of the lamina propria, with transmural inflammatory infiltrates, sometimes with multinucleated giant cells. In this article, we aim to review the role of temporal artery resection in the diagnosis of Horton's arteritis, but we also discuss the hypothesis of a potential therapeutic benefit of this procedure. However, there are also clinical situations in which there has been a considerable improvement in clinical symptoms and especially in vision deficit, with the improvement of the visual field after surgery performed for biopsy. It is difficult to estimate the influence of temporal artery resection alone, given that most patients also have concomitant cortisone treatment. However, in some cases, the rapid improvement of symptoms immediately after surgery, with the improvement of visual acuity and visual field, along with the disappearance of the headaches, can create the premises for future studies on a therapeutic contribution of temporal artery resection in GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Vrinceanu
- ENT Department, Emergency University Hospital, 010271 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Dumitru
- ENT Department, Emergency University Hospital, 010271 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Bogdan Banica
- ENT Department, Emergency University Hospital, 010271 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Oana Patrascu
- Department of Pathology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adrian Costache
- Department of Pathology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Matei Popa Cherecheanu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, 'Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu' Emergency Clinical Hospital, 011356 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Madalina Gabriela Georgescu
- Clinical and Hearing Aid Department, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this study was to present the latest advances in giant cell arteritis (GCA) care, and recent national and international rheumatology societies guidance which influences clinical practice. RECENT FINDINGS Cranial ultrasound reduces diagnostic delay and improves clinical outcomes. Immediate high dose glucocorticoids remain the standard treatment for GCA. Controlled trial evidence using Tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist, shows good clinical efficacy with steroid-sparing effects. SUMMARY Improved patient outcomes require formalizing pathways to diagnosis and closer liaison with rheumatology for long-term management with second-line therapies.
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Thomas DC, Thomas P, Sivan A, Unnam P, Ajayakumar A, Kumar SS, Pitchumani PK, Fatahzadeh M, Mahmud NEH. Monckeberg's Medial Sclerosis as a Cause for Headache and Facial Pain. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2021; 25:50. [PMID: 34086132 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-021-00965-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Mönckeberg's medial sclerosis (MMS) is a chronic, non-inflammatory degenerative condition affecting primarily the tunica media of muscular arteries resulting in their calcification. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to describe MMS as it appears in the literature, in the context of headache and facial pain. Understanding the etiopathology, the associated conditions, and the differential diagnoses is important in managing MMS. RECENT FINDINGS Management of MMS primarily depends upon identification of its associated conditions and their treatment. Due to the rare incidence and inadequate literature on MMS presenting with headaches, the diagnosis of the pain and the entity itself is challenging. MMS is characterized by associated systemic conditions and absence of inflammatory markers. It can mimic giant cell arteritis (GCA) and other pain entities. An interdisciplinary approach involving appropriate specialties is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davis C Thomas
- Center for TMD and Orofacial Pain, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ, USA.
| | - Prisly Thomas
- Believers Church Medical College Hospital, Kerala, India
| | | | - Priyanka Unnam
- Diagnostic Sciences, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ, USA
| | | | | | | | - Mahnaz Fatahzadeh
- Division of Oral Medicine, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Nida-E-Haque Mahmud
- Professional Program for International Dentists, University of California Los A ngeles School of Dentistry, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Lyons HS, Quick V, Sinclair AJ, Nagaraju S, Mollan SP. A new era for giant cell arteritis. Eye (Lond) 2020; 34:1013-1026. [PMID: 31582795 PMCID: PMC7253415 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-019-0608-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The landscape of the investigation and management of giant cell arteritis (GCA) is advancing. In this review we will outline the recent advances by searching the current English literature for relevant articles using key words of giant cell arteritis, temporal arteritis, Horton's disease, investigation, and treatment. Delay in diagnosis, diagnostic uncertainty and glucocorticoid (GC) morbidity are among the highest concerns of clinicians and patients in this disease area. The positive news is that fast track pathways, imaging techniques and new therapies are emerging for routine management of GCA. Future directions for intervention in the treatment paradigm will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Lyons
- Medical School, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - V Quick
- Luton and Dunstable University Hospital, Lewsey Road, Luton, LU4 0DZ, UK
| | - A J Sinclair
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
- Metabolic Neurology, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - S Nagaraju
- Department of Histopathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
| | - S P Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.
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Mollan SP, Paemeleire K, Versijpt J, Luqmani R, Sinclair AJ. European Headache Federation recommendations for neurologists managing giant cell arteritis. J Headache Pain 2020; 21:28. [PMID: 32183689 PMCID: PMC7079499 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-020-01093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Giant cell arteritis (GCA) remains a medical emergency because of the risk of sudden irreversible sight loss and rarely stroke along with other complications. Because headache is one of the cardinal symptoms of cranial GCA, neurologists need to be up to date with the advances in investigation and management of this condition. The aim of this document by the European Headache Federation (EHF) is to provide an evidence-based and expert-based recommendations on GCA. METHODS The working group identified relevant questions, performed systematic literature review and assessed the quality of available evidence, and wrote recommendations. Where there was not a high level of evidence, the multidisciplinary (neurology, ophthalmology and rheumatology) group recommended best practice based on their clinical experience. RESULTS Across Europe, fast track pathways and the utility of advanced imaging techniques are helping to reduce diagnostic delay and uncertainty, with improved clinical outcomes for patients. GCA is treated with high dose glucocorticoids (GC) as a first line agent however long-term GC toxicity is one of the key concerns for clinicians and patients. The first phase 2 and phase 3 randomised controlled trials of Tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor antagonist, have been published. It is now been approved as the first ever licensed drug to be used in GCA. CONCLUSION The present article will outline recent advances made in the diagnosis and management of GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. P. Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - K. Paemeleire
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J. Versijpt
- Department of Neurology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - R. Luqmani
- The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FY UK
| | - A. J. Sinclair
- Metabolic Neurology, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
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Sangolli PM, Lakshmi DV. Vasculitis: A Checklist to Approach and Treatment Update for Dermatologists. Indian Dermatol Online J 2019; 10:617-626. [PMID: 31807439 PMCID: PMC6859757 DOI: 10.4103/idoj.idoj_248_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasculitis poses a great diagnostic, investigative and therapeutic challenge to the treating physician. The classification of vasculitides itself still eludes universal acceptance. Comprehensive management comprises establishing the diagnosis of true vasculitis after ruling out vasculitis mimics, finding the etiology if feasible, assessing the caliber of the vessels involved, deciphering the pathological process of vessel damage, investigating for the existence and extent of systemic involvement and finally planning the therapy in the background of co-morbidities. Successful management also entails regular monitoring to foresee complications arising from the disease process itself as well as complications of immunosuppressive treatment. Although steroids remain first line drug, biologics are emerging as popular agents in the treatment of immune-mediated vasculitis. Triphasic treatment is the best plan of action comprising induction, maintenance of remission and treatment of relapses.
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Al-Mousawi AZ, Gurney SP, Lorenzi AR, Pohl U, Dayan M, Mollan SP. Reviewing the Pathophysiology Behind the Advances in the Management of Giant Cell Arteritis. Ophthalmol Ther 2019; 8:177-193. [PMID: 30820767 PMCID: PMC6513947 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-019-0171-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Improving understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of giant cell arteritis (GCA) is transforming clinical management by identifying novel avenues for targeted therapies. One key area of concern for both clinicians and patients with GCA is glucocorticoid (GC) morbidity. The first randomised controlled trials of targeted treatment to reduce cumulative GC use in GCA have been published, with tocilizumab, an interleukin (IL)-6 receptor inhibitor, now the first ever licensed treatment for GCA. Further potential therapies are emerging owing to our enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Other improvements in the care of our patients are rapid access pathways and imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, which are becoming part of modern rheumatology practice in the UK, Europe and beyond. These have been highlighted in the literature to reduce delay in diagnosis and improve long-term outcomes for those investigated for GCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alia Z Al-Mousawi
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
| | - Sam P Gurney
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK
| | - Alice R Lorenzi
- The Department of Rheumatology, The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE7 7DN, UK
| | - Ute Pohl
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2GW, UK
| | - Margaret Dayan
- Ophthalmology Department, The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Susan P Mollan
- Birmingham Neuro-Ophthalmology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.
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