Lower extremity vasculitis in polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis

Abstract

Recent studies suggest that extracranial involvement of giant cell arteritis (GCA) may be more extensive than previously appreciated and clinicians should be aware of this complication.

Imaging studies in GCA and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) suggest that vasculitis can affect multiple vascular territories including the lower extremities. The findings of imaging studies, clinical features and outcomes of patients with lower extremity vasculitis are explored in this review. Possible mechanisms for the observed distribution of vessel involvement are discussed.

Lower extremity involvement in GCA and PMR may be associated with significant morbidity and is likely underrecognized clinically. Imaging studies can be useful in identifying this uncommon complication.