Giant cell arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), otherwise known as temporal arteritis, is a granulomatous inflammation of medium to large-sized vessels. It occurs mostly in elderly patients over the age of 70 although cases have been reported in patients as young as 50. It is a potentially sight threatening emergency and its recognition is crucial due to its devastating sequelae. Vision loss is often severe, and fellow eye involvement occurs within weeks or days if untreated. In addition, failure to rule out this condition can lead to cardiovascular complications including myocardial infarction and stroke.
Source: Disease a Month - Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Source Type: research