Giant cell arteritis: Diagnosing and treating inflammatory arthritis in older adults

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, cranial arteritis, or granulomatous arteritis, is a systemic necrotizing vasculitis seen in patients typically over age 50. Primary care physicians routinely see elderly patients with headaches and fatigue; these may be potential symptoms of GCA. Early recognition and treatment of this potentially blinding condition is essential. Systemic steroids are the standard therapy for patients with a positive diagnosis of GCA.