Giant Cell Arthritis

Question 1

What is Giant Cell Arteritis also known as?

Answer 1

Temporal Arteritis

Question 1

GCA is what?

Answer 1

Type of systemic vasculitis affecting medium and large arteries. Strong link with polymyalgia rheumatica

Question 2

Complication of Giant Cell Arteritis

Answer 2

Vision loss

Question 3

Presentation of Giant Cell Arteritis

Answer 3

Scalp Tenderness
Jaw Claudication
Blurred/Double Vision
Possible symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica
systemic symptoms
Carpal tunnel possible

Question 4

Diagnosing GCA

Answer 4

Clinical Presentation
Raised inflammatory markers eg ESR
Temporal artery biopsy: multinucleated giant cells
Duplex Ultrasound eg halo and stenosis of temporal artery

Question 5

Treating GCA

Answer 5

Steroids - Pred if no visual symptoms
Methylpred if visual symptoms or jaw claudication

Should also use PPI for gastroprotection while on steroids