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Temporal Arteritis
Medical Questions » Temporal Arteritis
| Name: Temporal Arteritis |
| Also known as: Giant Cell Arteritis |
| Inflammation of medium to large arteries throughout the body, but most commonly the arteries in the temples at the side of the head. |
Causes of Temporal Arteritis
The cause is unknown but may an autoimmune disease. Often follows a significant viral infection. |
Symptoms of Temporal Arteritis
Involved arteries become extremely tender and swollen. Symptoms depend on which arteries are inflamed, but may include headache, scalp tenderness, pain in the jaw with chewing, throat pain and vision disturbances. Less commonly a cough, shoulder pain, weakness and a fever occur. |
Tests for Temporal Arteritis
Blood tests to detect the inflammation, and biopsy of an artery which reveals the presence of giant cells. |
Treatment for Temporal Arteritis
Steroid tablets (eg: prednisone) taken for months.
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Complications of Temporal Arteritis of its treatment
Blindness due to involvement of the arteries in the eye, and aneurysms (dilation) of arteries. About half the patients have polymyalgia rheumatica. |
Likely Outcome of Temporal Arteritis
Usually well controlled and eventually cured. Recurrences when medication is ceased are common. |
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