Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is a systemic vasculitis of the large vessels with a predilection for the cranial branches of the aorta. GCA affects women to men in a 3:1 ratio and almost exclusively those over age 50. Giant Cell Arteritis is characterized by a relatively abrupt onset followed by chronic vascular and systemic inflammation. Those with Giant Cell Arteritis may experiences such as reoccurring headaches, jaw paid, and ocular symptoms such as vision loss. Systematic symptoms include fever, fatigue and weight loss.
Giant Cell Arteritis
- by Hannah Kruck