Temporal (Giant Cell) Arteritis

Temporal arteritis (TA), also called giant cell arteritis (GCA) or cranial arteritis, is a systemic inflammatory vasculitis of medium and large-sized arteries occurring most frequently in adults. This results in an ischemic optic neuropathy with irreversible or significant visual loss on the affected side with possible contralateral involvement. Left untreated, it can result in many systemic, neurologic, and ophthalmologic complications. Although the temporal artery is most commonly involved, other arteries may certainly be affected. These include the aorta and the subclavian, iliac, ophthalmic, occipital, and vertebral arteries. Although not necessary, the disease is commonly associated with polymyalgia rheumatica.[1][2][3]