A Case Report: Diagnosing Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Secondary to Giant Cell Arteritis: Utilizing the Updated 2022 American College of Rheumatology(ACR)/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) Classification Guide as an Aid

Introduction: This report presents a case of arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy secondary to giant cell arteritis in a 75-year-old White woman. The report aims to educate on the clinical features, updated diagnostic algorithm, evidence-based treatment, and natural history of this entity when encountered in practice. Case Report: The patient presented with sudden vision loss in the left eye, accompanied by systemic symptoms and a history of moderate intermittent headaches for 1 month. The patient was evaluated 1 week prior at an urgent care center and was treated for an unspecified sinusitis with a nasal steroid spray. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including examination findings, ancillary tests, and interdisciplinary collaboration supported the diagnosis of arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy secondary to giant cell arteritis. Conclusion: This case report emphasizes the importance of early recognition of arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy secondary to giant cell arteritis by using the updated 2022 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology classification criteria as an aid. The diagnostic algorithm involves considering clinical features, fulfilling diagnostic criteria, and using appropriate diagnostic testing. Early initiation of high-dose corticosteroid therapy is crucial to prevent further vision loss. The natural history and long-term visual prognosis of arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy secondary to giant cell arteritis are also discussed