Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)
Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is a serious inflammatory condition that affects the blood vessels, particularly the large arteries in the head and neck. This condition primarily targets the arteries that supply blood to the optic nerve and other eye parts, leading to sudden vision loss if not treated promptly.
Giant Cell Arteritis is an optic nerve disease, affecting the nerve responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to serious vision complications. Learn more about optic nerve disease here.
Causes and Risk Factors
GCA is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own blood vessels, causing inflammation. While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing GCA, including:
Age: GCA typically affects individuals over the age of 50.
Gender: Women are more commonly affected than men.
Genetics: A family history of GCA or other autoimmune conditions may increase the risk.
Symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis
The symptoms of GCA can vary but often include:
Severe headaches, particularly in the temples
Tenderness of the scalp, especially when combing hair
Jaw pain while chewing (jaw claudication)
Sudden vision loss or double vision
Fatigue, fever, and general malaise
Pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and hips (associated with polymyalgia rheumatica)
Since GCA can cause irreversible vision loss, early detection and treatment are critical.
Schedule Your Eye Exam Today
If you're concerned about your eye health or experiencing any symptoms related to giant cell arteritis, contact Hashemi Eye Care to schedule a consultation. Early intervention is key to preserving your vision.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing giant cell arteritis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and imaging:
Blood Tests: Elevated markers of inflammation, such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), often indicate the presence of GCA.
Biopsy: A temporal artery biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining the tissue for signs of inflammation.
Imaging: In some cases, imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess inflammation in the affected arteries.
Treatment for Giant Cell Arteritis
The primary treatment for GCA is corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and prevent complications like vision loss. Treatment usually starts with high doses of steroids, which are gradually tapered down over time. In some cases, medications like prednisone or immunosuppressants may be prescribed to manage the condition long-term.
Vision Complications
One of the most serious complications of untreated GCA is Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (ION), which occurs when the inflammation from GCA reduces blood flow to the optic nerve. This lack of blood supply can lead to sudden and permanent vision loss. The optic nerve becomes damaged due to insufficient blood flow, resulting in blindness if not treated promptly.
Since vision loss can be sudden and irreversible, prompt treatment is essential to prevent blindness. If you're experiencing any symptoms associated with GCA, especially vision changes, seek medical attention immediately.
