Arteritis

Inflammation of the arteries

Arteritis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This inflammation can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications, depending on the specific arteries affected and the underlying cause of the inflammation.

Types of Arteritis

Arteritis can be classified into several types, each with distinct characteristics and causes. The most common types include:

Giant Cell Arteritis

Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is the most common form of arteritis in adults over the age of 50. It primarily affects the arteries in the head, especially the temporal arteries. Symptoms may include headache, scalp tenderness, jaw claudication, and visual disturbances. If left untreated, GCA can lead to blindness.

Takayasu's Arteritis

Takayasu's arteritis is a rare form of arteritis that affects the aorta and its main branches. It is more common in young women and can lead to symptoms such as arm or leg claudication, decreased or absent pulses, and high blood pressure. Takayasu's arteritis can cause significant narrowing of the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to various organs.

Polyarteritis Nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a systemic vasculitis that affects medium-sized arteries. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, weight loss, muscle and joint pain, and organ dysfunction. PAN can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.

Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease is a type of arteritis that primarily affects children. It causes inflammation in the walls of medium-sized arteries throughout the body, including the coronary arteries. Symptoms include fever, rash, swelling of the hands and feet, and red eyes. Early treatment is crucial to prevent coronary artery aneurysms.

Causes

The exact cause of arteritis is often unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some forms of arteritis, such as giant cell arteritis and Takayasu's arteritis, are thought to be autoimmune diseases, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Infections, medications, and other underlying health conditions can also trigger arteritis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of arteritis vary depending on the type and location of the affected arteries. Common symptoms include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Muscle and joint pain
• Visual disturbances
• Jaw pain
• Reduced or absent pulses

Diagnosis

Diagnosing arteritis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Blood tests may show elevated markers of inflammation, such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Imaging studies, such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans, can help visualize the affected arteries. A biopsy of the affected artery may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The primary treatment for arteritis is the use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation. In some cases, additional immunosuppressive medications may be required. Early and aggressive treatment is important to prevent complications, such as vision loss in giant cell arteritis or organ damage in polyarteritis nodosa.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with arteritis varies depending on the type and severity of the condition. With appropriate treatment, many people can achieve remission and lead normal lives. However, some forms of arteritis can be chronic and require long-term management.

Related pages

• Vasculitis
• Autoimmune disease
• Inflammation

Images

Diagram of an artery