All are true about temporal arteritis, Except –
**Temporal Arteritis**
### Core Concept
Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is a large vessel vasculitis that predominantly affects the branches of the external carotid artery, particularly the temporal artery. It is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by granulomatous inflammation of the arterial wall, leading to stenosis or occlusion.
### Why the Correct Answer is Right
The condition predominantly affects individuals over the age of 50, with a peak incidence in the 7th and 8th decades of life. The inflammation of the arterial wall leads to pain and tenderness in the affected arteries, particularly the temporal artery, and can cause scalp tenderness. The condition is often associated with polymyalgia rheumatica, a condition characterized by muscle pain and stiffness.
### Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
**Option A:** Temporal arteritis is not typically associated with Raynaud's phenomenon, which is a condition characterized by vasospasm of the digital arteries.
**Option B:** Temporal arteritis is not commonly associated with eosinophilia, which is an increase in the number of eosinophils in the blood.
**Option C:** Temporal arteritis is indeed a type of vasculitis, which is an inflammation of the blood vessels.
### Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
Temporal arteritis should be considered in patients over 50 with new-onset headaches, scalp tenderness, or jaw claudication, as prompt treatment with corticosteroids can prevent visual loss and other complications.
### Correct Answer: C. Temporal arteritis is indeed a type of vasculitis.