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The Geo-epidemiology of Temporal (Giant Cell) Arteritis

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Abstract

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculopathy in patients over the age of 50. The majority of data on the geo-epidemiology of GCA is derived from Scandinavia, although there is very good documentation and epidemiological descriptions from studies throughout Europe and North America. There remains, however, a paucity of data on the incidence and prevalence of GCA in North American minority populations, as well as from Africa or Asia. The data that does exist suggests that the incidence of GCA is lower in Hispanic, Asian, and African American populations. It is interesting to note that as the population throughout the world continues to age, we anticipate an increased prevalence of disease based upon increases in annual incidence and improved survival. Considerable research is still needed to identify genetic, environmental, and gender-specific factors that influence not only the etiology, but also the natural history of disease.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California at Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA, 95616, USA

    Jennifer L. Lee, Stanley M. Naguwa, Gurtej S. Cheema & M. Eric Gershwin

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  1. Jennifer L. Lee
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  2. Stanley M. Naguwa
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  3. Gurtej S. Cheema
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  4. M. Eric Gershwin
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Correspondence to M. Eric Gershwin.

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Lee, J.L., Naguwa, S.M., Cheema, G.S. et al. The Geo-epidemiology of Temporal (Giant Cell) Arteritis. Clinic Rev Allerg Immunol 35, 88–95 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12016-008-8075-0

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