Horton’s disease is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects large intra- and extracranial vessels. The wall of the external carotid artery is most commonly affected in this disease. The primary and supportive treatment in Israel is conducted through the administration of glucocorticoids for a period of up to two years.
Causes
The main cause of the disease is considered to be disturbances in the immune system with an autoimmune basis. This is confirmed by the presence of antibodies to immunoglobulins in affected individuals. Immune complex deposits are registered in the wall of the affected vessel. Viral-type diseases are provoking factors. The role of heredity in the onset of the disease is also confirmed.
Symptoms of Horton’s Disease
Symptoms of the disease may manifest within a few weeks. It is not uncommon for the disease to present acutely after a viral illness. Common signs of Horton’s disease include fever, headaches, weight loss, and insomnia. A characteristic feature of the disease is a pulsating headache accompanied by numbness in part of the face. Vascular disturbances manifest as thickening and tenderness upon palpation of the arteries in the parietal region of the head and temples. Vision disturbances are registered, which can cause double vision, blurred vision, and pain in the eyeballs.
Diagnosis of Horton’s Disease in Israel
Diagnosis in Israel includes a range of methods and is based on their results and data from medical examinations, including: medical history, laboratory studies, temporal artery biopsy, and examinations by an ophthalmologist and neurologist. Instrumental methods used for diagnosis include MRI of the brain and angiography.
Treatment of Horton’s Disease in Israel
The basis of therapy for treating the disease in Israel is the use of glucocorticoid hormones. In cases of acute vision disturbances, pulse therapy with methylprednisolone is prescribed. Treatment usually lasts about two years. If glucocorticoid therapy is ineffective, treatment with cytostatics is prescribed. Anti-inflammatory medications and anticoagulants are used to combat symptoms.
Prevention
In the presence of hereditary predisposition, timely and adequate treatment of viral diseases is necessary. The prognosis for patients is generally good, despite possible complications, including those from glucocorticoid therapy.