The enigma of giant cell arteritis: multidisciplinary management of two cases.

Background: Giant cell arteritis is an enigmatic disease that is characterized by chronic granulomatous inflammation of the walls of large and medium-sized arteries. The process has a predilection for the extradural cranial arteries, which include the ophthalmic and the posterior ciliary arteries. A multisymptom disease of older individuals, giant cell arteritis often manifests challenging issues and diagnostic dilemmas.

Use of spectacle mounted telescope systems by the visually impaired.

Background: Spectacle mounted telescope low vision aids are designed to magnify objects Spectacle telescopes are often rejected by the visually impaired because of their unusual cosmetic appearance which may call attention to their disability.

Methods: Fifty-six subjects were recruited at four independent low vision clinics and divided into two categories: 24 were current wearers of expanded field spectacle mounted telescope systems, and 32 were new wearers. New wearers underwent a randomized cross-over trial, comparing the experimental device (Ocutech VES) to one of two controls (DFV Expanded Field or Walter's Keplarian Close-focus Telescope).