Interdisciplinary approach in the management of visual loss in giant cell arteritis.

Abstract

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis among older patients in western countries. A correct diagnosis permits the prompt initiation of glucocorticoids, which still represent the cornerstone of treatment. One of the most feared complications of the disease is sudden visual loss and other ischemic events causing visual disturbances. In these cases, an interdisciplinary approach between ophthalmologists and rheumatologists is crucial to avoiding any diagnostic delays and to permitting correct clinical assessment without subjecting the patient to unnecessary treatment. In this review, we discuss the main causes of visual disturbances in GCA, particularly the causes of sight loss, outlining the red flags that should raise suspicion in ophthalmologists and rheumatologists.