Hybrid/Multimodality Cardiovascular Imaging in Large Vessel Vasculitis

Dear Colleagues,

Large vessel vasculitis (LVV) is the most common form of primary vasculitis comprising giant cell arteritis (GCA), Takayasu arteritis (TAK) and aortitis. The field of GCA and LVV has undergone rapid expansion. Ultrasound-guided fast-track strategies have led to a reduction of irreversible vision loss, and the concept of imaging confirmed large vessel (LV-)GCA with or without cranial disease, has been added to the disease definition. Based on these considerations, the importance of multimodality imaging modalities including ultrasound, MRI, CT and [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET)/CT has steadily increased. These techniques enable the assessment of cranial and extracranial arteries and the aorta and are less invasive, more sensitive and more quickly available than temporal artery biopsy (TAB) and conventional angiography, which have been the sole diagnostic standards in GCA and TAK, respectively, for decades. For monitoring of LVV activity during and after treatment, related biomarker measurements would be helpful, however specific serum biomarkers are lacking. Multimodality imaging can play a central role in this.

This Special Issue aims to present the role of non-invasive imaging modalities in the diagnosis and imaged-based therapeutic management of large vessel vasculitis, with a particular attention not only to the standard of care, but also for relevant developments for the near future. We encourage authors to submit both preclinical and clinical studies in the field. Clinical studies may include systematic reviews/meta-analysis, retrospective studies, and prospective studies emphasizing the role and need of imaging techniques in primary diagnosis, treatment-response, and disease relapse.

Prof. Dr. Riemer H.J.A. Slart
Prof. Dr. Lars C. Gormsen
Guest Editors

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