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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
06:35
An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
Temporal arteritis: don't let this disease fool you.
1Department of Ophthalmology, Veterans Affairs Hospital, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, USA.
General Dentistry
|March 6, 2007
Summary
Temporal arteritis, a condition affecting older adults, presents with diverse head and jaw pain symptoms. Dentists should consider this disease in puzzling patient cases lacking clear oral or physical explanations.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Vascular Inflammation
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Temporal arteritis (TA), also known as giant cell arteritis, is a vasculitis primarily affecting individuals over 50.
- TA can present with nonspecific symptoms, including headache, jaw claudication, and visual disturbances.
- Dental pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can sometimes be the initial presentation of TA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of considering temporal arteritis in the differential diagnosis of dental patients.
- To educate dental practitioners on the potential oral manifestations of this systemic disease.
- To emphasize the need for thorough patient evaluation when faced with unexplained craniofacial pain.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations of temporal arteritis.
- Analysis of case studies where dental complaints were the primary symptom.
- Discussion of diagnostic criteria and referral pathways for suspected TA.
Main Results:
- Temporal arteritis can mimic various dental and TMJ disorders.
- Delayed diagnosis of TA can lead to serious complications, including vision loss.
- Early recognition by dentists can facilitate timely medical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Temporal arteritis is a critical consideration for dentists diagnosing patients with unexplained head and jaw pain.
- Increased awareness among dental professionals can improve patient outcomes by enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment of TA.
- Collaboration between dental and medical practitioners is essential for managing patients with suspected temporal arteritis.
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Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...
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Step 3: Assess the patient's forehead...
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