Health Guide

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is a vasculitis that primarily affects medium and large arteries, especially the branches of the carotid artery. It commonly involves the temporal arteries, hence the name temporal arteritis. The exact cause of GCA is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. The immune system is thought to attack the blood vessels, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the affected arteries. Genetic and environmental factors may also contribute to the development of GCA. The most common manifestations of GCA are headache, scalp tenderness, jaw claudication (pain with chewing), and visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or sudden visual loss. Constitutional symptoms like fever, fatigue, and weight loss may also be present. It is important to consider GCA in the differential diagnosis of any patient over the age of 50 presenting with these symptoms. Diagnosis of GCA is based on a combination of clinical features, labor...