Temporal arteritis is a progressive inflammation of the cranial blood vessels, especially those vessels in the forehead region. It is now known to be only part of generalized arteritis. Many other arteries may be inflamed at the same time. The disorder occurs most frequently in elderly women. Symptoms include severe headaches and pain with chewing.
Diagnosis is made by biopsy of the affected artery.
Steroids are the treatment of choice. Temporal arteritis, if untreated, may result in the loss of vision.