Description A type of vasculiti...
Description
A type of vasculitis that causes inflammation of the arteries, primarily in the head. It most commonly affects one or both temporal arteries, which are located on the side of the scalp. The most common symptoms are headache, muscle aches and low grade fever. Prompt treatment is essential to avoid vision loss. Temporal arteritis occurs in people over age 50. Women are affected more often than men. This disease is also called giant cell arteritis and is related to polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).
Symptoms
Pain in one or both temple areas of the scalp, headache, jaw pain with chewing, blurry vision, aching around the shoulder and pelvis, low grade fever.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A blood test for ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and/or CRP (C reactive protein) are done if the disease is suspected. A biopsy of the temporal artery is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C reactive protein), biopsy of temporal artery
Specialists:
General Surgery, Neurology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A blood test for ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and/or CRP (C reactive protein) are done if the disease is suspected. A biopsy of the temporal artery is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C reactive protein), biopsy of temporal artery
Specialists:
General Surgery, Neurology
Treatment
Treatment requires a high dose of oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. It should be started as soon as possible to prevent complications such as loss of sight.