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Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant cell arteritis is a disease of the blood vessels, usually in the head/scalp and neck.  

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), or temporal arteritis, is an inflammatory disease affecting the large blood vessels of the scalp, neck and arms. Inflammation causes a narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels, which interrupts blood flow. The disease is commonly associated with polymyalgia rheumatica.

Caucasian women over the age of 50 – most commonly between the ages of 70 and 80 years – have the highest risk of developing giant cell arteritis. Although women are more likely than men to develop GCA, research suggests that men are more likely to suffer potentially blinding eye involvement.

Causes

The cause of GCA is uncertain but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks the blood vessels, including the temporal arteries, which supply blood to the head and the brain. Genetic and environmental factors (such as infections) are thought to play important roles. Because it is rare in people under age 50, its development could be linked to the aging process.

Symptoms

Early symptoms of giant cell arteritis may resemble flu symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite and fever. Symptoms specifically related to the inflamed arteries of the head include:

  • Headaches, often severe.
  • Tenderness of the scalp or temples.
  • Double vision.
  • Temporary or sustained vision loss (like having a curtain pulled partly over the eye).
  • Dizziness or problems with coordination and balance.
  • Jaw pain when eating or talking.
  • Persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing.
  • Occasional chest pain.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of giant cell arteritis is based largely on symptoms and a physical examination. The exam may reveal that the temporal artery is inflamed and tender to the touch, and that it has a reduced pulse.

A temporal artery biopsy is done if the physical exam suggests GCA. This involves removing a tiny piece of tissue from above and in front of the ear and examining it under a microscope. A biopsy that is positive for giant cell arteritis will show abnormal cells in the artery walls. Sometimes more than one biopsy may be necessary to make the diagnosis.

Treatment

Prompt treatment with high doses of corticosteroids reduces the small but definite risk of blindness. As with polymyalgia rheumatica, the symptoms of giant cell arteritis quickly disappear with treatment, but corticosteroid therapy may be necessary for months to years to keep the inflammation down.

Sometimes GCA may be treated with other immune-suppressing drugs such as methotrexate.

Self Care

Once symptoms disappear and inflammatory markers in the blood are normal, the risk of blindness is greatly reduced. Proper nutrition, physical activity, rest, and following the prescribed medication regimen are important for managing the condition and combating any possible side-effects of corticosteroid therapy. GCA has been linked to an increased risk of aneurysms (a ballooned and weakened area of an artery), which can occur years after diagnosis. Doctors and caregivers should be aware of this possibility.

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By taking part in the Live Yes! INSIGHTS assessment, you’ll be among those changing lives today and changing the future of arthritis, for yourself and for 54 million others. And all it takes is just 10 minutes.

Your shared experiences will help:

- Lead to more effective treatments and outcomes
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Now is the time to make your voice count, for yourself and the entire arthritis community. 

Currently this program is for the adult arthritis community.  Since the needs of the juvenile arthritis (JA) community are unique, we are currently working with experts to develop a customized experience for JA families. 

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As a partner, you will help the Arthritis Foundation provide life-changing resources, science, advocacy and community connections for people with arthritis, the nations leading cause of disability. Join us today and help lead the way as a Champion of Yes.

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Our Trailblazers are committed partners ready to lead the way, take action and fight for everyday victories. They contribute $2,000,000 to $2,749,000

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Our Visionary partners help us plan for a future that includes a cure for arthritis. These inspired and inventive champions have contributed $1,500,00 to $1,999,999.

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Our Pioneers are always ready to explore and find new weapons in the fight against arthritis. They contribute $1,000,000 to $1,499,999.

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Our Pacesetters ensure that we can chart the course for a cure for those who live with arthritis. They contribute $500,000 to $999,000.

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Our Signature partners make their mark by helping us identify new and meaningful resources for people with arthritis. They contribute $250,000 to $499,999.

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Our Supporting partners are active champions who provide encouragement and assistance to the arthritis community. They contribute $100,000 to $249,999.

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