About Us | Privacy | Site Map
Font Size
A
A
A

Definition of Temporal arteritis

Temporal arteritis: Also called giant cell arteritis or cranial arteritis, this is a serious disease characterized by inflammation of the walls of the blood vessels (vasculitis). The vessels affected by inflammation are the arteries (hence the name "arteritis"). The age of affected patients is usually over 50 years of age. Giant cell arteritis can lead to blindness and/or stroke. It is detected by a biopsy of an artery. It is treated with high dose cortisone-related medications.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5729
Last Editorial Review: 3/26/1998 2:29:00 PM


Medical Dictionary Definitions A - Z

Search Medical Dictionary


Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz




Medical Dictionary