Understanding Giant Cell Arteritis
Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), often called "temporal arteritis," is the most common form of vasculitis in people over 50 and is characterized by an inflammation of the blood vessels of the scalp, neck and arms.1 The cause of the disease is unknown, and the diagnosis process is complicated by the fact that no single test is definitive.2
What is the impact of Giant Cell Arteritis?
Permanent visual impairment may occur in as many as 20% of GCA patients.3
A large study showed patients with GCA may have higher risks of heart attacks, strokes and peripheral artery disease.4
Patients with GCA have an increased risk of death from the complications of aortic aneurysms.5
Its prevalence is seen in certain populations.
GCA is the most common form of vasculitis in people over 50.6
Approximately 228,000 adults in the US are affected by GCA.6
The disease is more common in women, who are affected approximately 3 to 3.5 times more often than men.7
It can affect multiple areas of the body.
