Understanding Giant Cell Arteritis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Giant cell arteritis, also known as temporal arteritis, is an inflammatory disease that affects the large and medium-sized blood vessels in the head, particularly the temporal arteries. This condition can cause a range of symptoms and, if left untreated, may lead to serious complications such as vision loss. In this article, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for giant cell arteritis.

What Causes Giant Cell Arteritis?

Giant cell arteritis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. In this case, the immune cells target the blood vessels, causing inflammation and swelling. While the exact trigger for this condition is unknown, certain factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being over 50 years old

• Being female

• Having a European ancestry, particularly Scandinavian

Symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis

The most common symptom of giant cell arteritis is a severe headache, often felt in the temples and scalp. Other symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Jaw pain when chewing

• Facial pain

• Vision problems (blurred vision, double vision, or sudden vision loss)

• Pain in the shoulders, arms, neck, and hip

• Appetite loss and weight loss

• Cough and sore throat

• Tongue pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult your doctor promptly.

The Link Between Giant Cell Arteritis and Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Approximately half of the people with giant cell arteritis also have polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), an inflammatory condition that causes stiffness and aching in the arms, neck, lower back, and thighs. While the exact connection between the two conditions is unclear, they often occur together and can be treated with similar medications.

Diagnosing Giant Cell Arteritis

To diagnose giant cell arteritis, your doctor will perform a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and check for swelling and a weak pulse in the temporal artery. They may also recommend one or more of the following tests:

• Temporal artery biopsy

• Blood tests to check for inflammation

• CT scan or MRI to examine the arteries in detail

• Eye examination to check for vision-related complications

Treatment Options for Giant Cell Arteritis

Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent vision loss and other complications associated with giant cell arteritis. The main treatment involves high doses of steroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation in the arteries. Most people need to take steroids for 1 to 2 years, with the dosage gradually reduced as the inflammation subsides.

Other treatment options may include:

• Methotrexate, a drug used to treat cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis

• Tocilizumab (Actemra), a biologic drug given as an injection to reduce the need for steroids

• Aspirin to thin the blood and prevent clots

• Calcium and vitamin D supplements, along with bisphosphonates, to prevent bone damage caused by long-term steroid use

Regular monitoring through blood tests and bone mineral density scans is essential to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to minimize side effects.

In conclusion, giant cell arteritis is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can work with your healthcare provider to manage the disease effectively and maintain your quality of life. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have giant cell arteritis, don't hesitate to seek medical advice.

For more information on giant cell arteritis, visit:

• American College of Rheumatology - Giant Cell Arteritis

• Vasculitis Foundation - Giant Cell Arteritis

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases - Giant Cell Arteritis