Temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica: two aspects of one disease

Temporal (cranial, giant cell) arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica are probably different expressions of the same inflammatory disease. The disease occurs mainly in the elderly and is characterized in the early stage by vague, nonspecific symptoms. Tenderness of the temporal arteries is diagnostic but rarely is present early. Unfortunagely, loss of vision usually occurs before the diagnosis is made. A high index of suspicion and frequent testing of the ESR in elderly patients with vague complaints may lead to earlier diagnosis and appropriate therapy and thus may prevent blindness and even death.