[Vasculitis in the temporal artery--found not only in temporal arteritis]

Vasculitis in the temporal artery is almost pathognomonic for temporal arteritis. Inflammatory changes in the temporal artery has also been reported in other primary vasculitis disorders like polyarteritis nodosa, Wegener's granulomatosis and Churg-Strauss syndrome. New observations may even indicate that vasculitis in the temporal artery is quite common in cases of polyarteritis nodosa. A correct diagnosis; is important, due to the differences in treatment and prognosis for these diseases.