What is Giant Cell Arteritis?
Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)—also known medically as temporal arteritis—is an inflammatory condition that affects blood vessels, primarily medium- and large-sized arteries. The inflammation most commonly occurs in blood vessels in the head, particularly around the temples. Because of this, the condition is often informally referred to as “temporal artery inflammation” or more vividly as “rheumatism of the head.” In some cases, the aorta—the body’s main artery—may also be affected. The disease typically develops in people over the age of 50, with the highest incidence in individuals aged 70 and older. It is significantly more common in women than in men.
What causes Giant Cell Arteritis?
The condition begins with a misdirected reaction by the immune system. Instead of targeting viruses and bacteria, certain immune cells mistakenly attack the body’s own blood vessel walls. These cells infiltrate the affected arterial walls, where they cluster and fuse to form what are known as giant cells—hence the name of the disease. Much like during an immune response to infection, this activity triggers inflammation. The result is thickening and swelling of the vessel walls.
What happens in the body with Giant Cell Arteritis?
When giant cells build up in the walls of blood vessels, the affected arteries become narrower and, in the worst case, can become completely blocked. This is what makes the autoimmune disease so dangerous: if blood cannot flow freely through the vessels, organs may no longer receive enough oxygen and nutrients. In addition to pain, this can lead to sudden vision problems or even blindness. Depending on which arteries are affected, vital organs like the heart or brain may also be affected, potentially resulting in serious complications such as a heart attack or stroke.
Normal temporal artery
Temporal arteritis
What can be done about Giant Cell Arteritis?
While Giant Cell Arteritis cannot not yet be cured, early diagnosis (How is Giant Cell Arteritis diagnosed – learn more here) and consistent treatment can usually prevent permanent damage. This allows most patients to maintain a good quality of life. Thanks to modern treatment options, this autoimmune disease typically does not reduce life expectancy either. You can read more here about how the disease can be treated.
