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Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant Cell Arteritis (pronounced: jai-ant sel ar-ter-i-tis), also known as Temporal Arteritis or Cranial Arteritis, is a type of vasculitis that often affects the arteries in the head, particularly those in the temples.

Etymology

The term "Giant Cell Arteritis" is derived from the characteristic "giant cells" seen in the arterial walls on histopathological examination. These cells are actually clusters of immune cells, which appear "giant" under the microscope.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis include headache, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, vision problems, and sometimes even stroke. These symptoms are due to inflammation and narrowing of the affected arteries, which can restrict blood flow to various parts of the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Giant Cell Arteritis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and imaging studies. A definitive diagnosis is usually made by a biopsy of the temporal artery, which shows the characteristic "giant cells" in the arterial wall.

Treatment

Treatment for Giant Cell Arteritis usually involves high-dose corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the arteries. In some cases, other immunosuppressive drugs may also be used.

Related Terms

  • Vasculitis: A general term for a group of diseases that involve inflammation of the blood vessels.
  • Temporal Artery Biopsy: A diagnostic procedure used to confirm Giant Cell Arteritis.
  • Corticosteroids: A class of drugs used to reduce inflammation in various conditions, including Giant Cell Arteritis.

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