Giant cell arteritis

This man's head is on fire. Underneath the fire, however, he has temporal arteritis. This is very serious, since it could affect his sight.

Definition

Giant Cell arteritis, or Temporal arteritis, is an inflammation of the giant cells in the wall of the temporal artery (in the temples).

Epidemiology

Pretty rare, but also VERY important.

Pathophysiology

Giant cell arteritis is a type of vasculitis, an inflammation of blood vessels.