Giant Cell Arteritis

Introduction

Giant cell arteritis is an inflammation of the lining of your arteries. Giant cell arteritis is the most common form of systemic vasculitis in adults. It typically causes inflammation of the network of small vessels (vasa vasorum) that supplies the larger arteries. It may occur together with polymyalgia rheumatic.

Symptoms

General Symptoms includes severe headaches, pain and tenderness over your temples and scalp. Pain in the jaw after chewing (called jaw claudication), fever and blurred vision are some other symptoms. The treatment for GCA should begin as soon as possible because of the risk of loss of vision.

Statistics

Giant Cell Arteritis causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. The incidence of this disease is varying among different populations. It is reported that, in Canada, Giant Cell Arteritis affects 1-6% of the total population. This disease mainly affects the age group of 45-54 years.