Scalp and Tongue Necrosis as Rare Manifestations of Giant Cell Arteritis Complicated with a Preauricular Abscess.

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis that involves cranial arteries, the aorta, and its proximal branches, characterized by granulomatous infiltration of the arterial walls. GCA predominantly occurs in older adults, typically those over the age of 50. The etiology of GCA-associated vasculitis remains elusive; however, current evidence underscores the complex interplay of genetic and epigenetic drivers with immunological and non-immunological mechanisms in orchestrating the inflammatory response and vascular remodeling. Clinical manifestations of GCA are notably heterogeneous, significantly complicating the diagnosis. The predominant clinical manifestation of GCA is the onset of a new headache. Additional prevalent symptoms include jaw claudication, scalp tenderness, and weakness or malaise. We present a case of a 64-year-old woman who presented with jaw claudication and was subsequently admitted with scalp and tongue necrosis, further complicated by a preauricular abscess. Timely diagnosis and intervention for these rare manifestations can diminish the patient's morbidity.