Giant cell arteritis presenting with uveitis

Abstract

Giant cell arteritis, also known as temporal arteritis, is the most common primary vasculitis affecting the nervous system. Early recognition of this treatable condition is essential to avoid potentially devastating complications. Giant cell arteritis occurs in adults older than 50 years and affects large and medium-sized arteries, especially the external and internal carotid arteries and their branches. Severe inflammation of the vessel wall may result in obstruction of the lumen and end-organ ischemia. Typical giant cell arteritis symptoms include headache, scalp tenderness, jaw claudication, and polymyalgia rheumatica. Ischemia induced by the arteritis can lead to blindness. Herein, we describe a rare case of giant cell arteritis in a patient who initially presented with uveitis, thus eluding timely diagnosis and prompt therapy.

Keywords: Giant cell arteritis; temporal arteritis; uveitis.