Category Archives: Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA or temporal arteritis) is an inflammatory disease of blood vessels (most commonly large and medium arteries of the head). It is a form of vasculitis.

The name (giant cell arteritis) reflects the type of inflammatory cell that is involved (as seen on biopsy).

The terms “giant cell arteritis” and “temporal arteritis” are sometimes used interchangeably, because of the frequent involvement of the temporal artery. However, it can involve other large vessels (such as the aorta in “giant cell aortitis”. Giant cell arteritis of the temporal artery is referred to as “temporal arteritis,” and is also known as “Cranial arteritis” and “Horton’s disease.” – Wikipedia