Last Updated on May 12, 2025 by Analgesia team
What Is Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)?
GCA is the medical abbreviation for Giant Cell Arteritis, a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the walls of medium and large arteries.
It’s also called temporal arteritis, and it’s considered a medical emergency because of its potential to cause permanent vision loss and even stroke if left untreated
Giant Cell Arteritis is a type of vasculitis, which means inflammation of blood vessels. In GCA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the walls of medium and large arteries, especially in the head and neck.
The term “giant cell” comes from the presence of large immune cells seen under a microscope in biopsied artery tissue.
If left untreated, Giant Cell Arteritis can lead to permanent vision loss or a stroke. Prompt corticosteroid treatment can relieve symptoms and prevent vision loss in the other eye. Most people need to take steroids long-term to prevent symptoms from returning.
Why Is GCA a Medical Emergency?
Let’s make this clear:
Without fast treatment, GCA can lead to sudden and irreversible blindness — often starting in one eye and spreading to the other.
There’s also a risk of stroke, especially if the arteries supplying the brain become inflamed.
Symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis
Many people with GCA experience sudden symptoms that can be misdiagnosed if not recognised early. The most common symptoms include:
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New or sudden headache — typically one-sided, in the temporal (side of the head) region
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Scalp tenderness — even brushing the hair can hurt
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Jaw claudication — pain or tiredness in the jaw while chewing
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Vision problems — such as blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss
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Fatigue, fever, or unexplained weight loss
Pro tip: If you’re over 50 and develop these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.
Who Does GCA Affect?
Giant Cell Arteritis is most commonly seen in:
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Adults over 50 — risk increases with age
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Women — about 2–3 times more likely than men
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People of Northern European descent — particularly those of Scandinavian heritage
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Individuals with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) — a related inflammatory disorder
How Is Giant Cell Arteritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis can be tricky, but speed is crucial. Doctors typically use:
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Blood tests — especially ESR and CRP, which measure inflammation
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Temporal artery biopsy — a small sample is removed from the temple for analysis
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Ultrasound of the temporal artery — sometimes used as a less invasive option
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Imaging tests — such as MRI or PET scan to check for inflammation in larger vessels
Treatment Options for GCA
Treatment begins immediately, even before the biopsy results return. Why? Because delays can lead to vision loss.
The standard treatment includes:
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High-dose corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone) — to reduce artery inflammation
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Gradual tapering over months or years
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Immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate or tocilizumab) — to reduce steroid dependence and long-term side effects
Patients are monitored closely with regular blood tests and eye checks.
Possible Complications of Giant Cell Arteritis
If not properly treated, GCA can lead to:
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Permanent vision loss
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Stroke
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Aortic aneurysms — weakened areas in the aorta that can rupture
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Relapse — symptoms can return if treatment is stopped too early
FAQ About GCA
What does Giant Cell Arteritis mean in medical terms?
GCA stands for Giant Cell Arteritis, an autoimmune condition that inflames medium-to-large arteries, especially around the head and eyes.
Is GCA life-threatening?
Yes, if left untreated. It can cause blindness, stroke, or aortic aneurysms.
How long do you take steroids for GCA?
Treatment can last 1–2 years or longer, depending on how well the inflammation is controlled.
Can GCA be cured?
There’s no outright cure, but with proper treatment, most people can manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Key Takeaway
If you came here wondering what GCA medical abbreviation stands for, now you know it’s more than just a term — it’s a serious condition that demands fast action.
If you or someone you know is experiencing new headaches, vision changes, or jaw pain, especially after age 50, seek urgent medical help.