Last Updated on January 6, 2025 by Analgesia team
GCA Medical abbreviation
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 known as temporal arteritis.
Giant Cell Arteritis is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment. Symptoms include:
- A new headache, usually on one side of the head in the temporal area
- Visual disturbances, such as vision loss or double vision
- Jaw pain while eating
If left untreated, Giant Cell Arteritis can lead to permanent vision loss or a stroke. Prompt treatment with corticosteroids can relieve symptoms and prevent vision loss in the other eye. Most people need to take steroids long-term to prevent symptoms from returning.
The most effective way to diagnose GCA is with a temporal artery biopsy, which involves removing tissue from the temporal artery for study.
Here are some things to know about Giant Cell Arteritis :
Symptoms
GCA can cause a new headache that’s usually on one side of the head, in the temporal area. Other symptoms include visual disturbances like vision loss or double vision.
Who it affects
Giant Cell Arteritis GCA usually affects people over 50 and is more common in women and white people.
Treatment
The main treatment for Giant Cell Arteritis is steroid medication, which is usually taken long-term. Other medications are taken alongside steroids to reduce the risk of side effects.
Diagnosis
The most effective way to diagnose GCA is with a temporal artery biopsy, which involves removing tissue from the temporal artery for study.
Complications
Giant Cell Arteritis can lead to vision loss and an increased risk of aneurysms. Aneurysms are weakened areas in an artery that can balloon.