Giant cell arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most important form of systemic vasculitis in Vascular Medicine. Major advances in diagnostic imaging including sonography have significantly improved the diagnosis of GCA in the past two decades. Nonetheless, temporal artery biopsy still plays a role in the diagnostic work-up of suspected GCA. The interleukin-6 receptor antagonist tocilizumab is the first promising treatment option for GCA since the introduction of corticosteroids. Early ischemic complications not only affect the eyes but also frequently the extremities and there is asubstantial risk of late thoracic aortic complications (e.g. aneurysm and dissection). Given the advances in the understanding of this systemic vascular disease, the vascular medical specialist nowadays plays an important role in the interdisciplinary management of GCA.