Ultrasound Measurement of Optic Nerve Sheath for Diagnosing Giant Cell Arteritis in Adults Over 50

What this Trial Is About

Giant Cell Arteritis GCA is a rare inflammation of large and medium-sized blood vessels, mainly affecting women around 70 years old. This research aims to evaluate if measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter ONSD by ultrasound can serve as a reliable diagnostic marker for GCA. Early and accurate diagnosis of GCA is crucial, as current recommended tests include imaging and temporal artery biopsy, which can be affected by prior corticosteroid treatment. Participants suspected of having GCA will undergo orbital ultrasound at the start of the study and again at six months if GCA is confirmed. This ultrasound method is non-invasive, widely available, and cost-effective, offering a potentially faster way to diagnose GCA. The study focuses on measuring the optic nerve sheath thickness to assess its diagnostic value. During the study, patients will receive orbital ultrasounds at enrollment and possibly after six months. Researchers will measure the optic nerve sheath diameter, assess its reproducibility, and study changes under treatment. They will also explore how this measurement relates to other GCA features such as extracranial involvement and visual symptoms. The primary outcome is the accuracy of the optic nerve sheath measurement at these time points for diagnosing GCA.

oPtic Nerve Sheath Evaluation in gianT Cell aRtheritis by UltraSound