The suitability of the ultrasound biomicroscope for establishing texture in giant cell arteritis. Issue 8 (1st August 2001)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Roters, Sigrid; Szurman, Peter; Engels, Bert F; Brunner, Richard
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 85:Issue 8(2001)
• Page Start: 946
• Page End: 948
• Publication Date: 2001-08-01
• Subjects: giant cell arteritis -- ultrasonography -- ultrasound biomicroscopy -- arterial biopsy; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.85.8.946
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : AIM: To establish whether ultrasound biomicroscope (UBM) is a helpful tool in locating the arterial segment responsible in patients with segmental attacks in giant cell arteritis METHODS: The superficial temporal arteries of 19 patients with suspected giant cell arteritis were examined with the UBM before biopsy. RESULTS: 20 specimens provided the histological proof of giant cell arteritis in five patients. Side differences, a dark perivascular halo, and high reflexivity of the intra-arterial space were found. CONCLUSION: it is assumed that there are two types of arteritic inflammation: (1) the occlusion of intra-arterial space due to intimal fibrosis (UBM: high reflexive "filling"), and (2) inflammation of the perivascular zone with oedematous thickening and infiltration of the media (UBM: dark halo) and its combination. UBM is helpful in obtaining an indication of the side and segment for biopsy.