arteritt

Arteritt is the Norwegian term for inflammation of the arteries, a condition that falls under the broader category of vasculitis. Inflammation can affect arteries of different sizes, leading to vessel wall thickening, narrowing of the lumen, and, in some cases, aneurysm formation or tissue damage due to reduced blood flow.

Causes and classification

Arteritt can be primary, as seen in systemic vasculitides such as giant cell arteritt (giant cell arteritis) and Takayasu arteritt (Takayasu arteritis), or secondary to infections, drugs, or associated systemic diseases. It may involve large vessels (eg, aorta and its major branches), medium-sized arteries (eg, polyarteritis nodosa), or small vessels.

Clinical presentation

Symptoms depend on which arteries are affected. Large-vessel arteritt may cause new headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw claudication, and vision disturbances. Peripheral artery involvement can lead to limb claudication or diminished pulses. Systemic signs such as fever, fatigue, and weight loss can occur with active disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis combines clinical evaluation with laboratory tests showing elevated inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and imaging studies. Ultrasound might reveal vessel wall thickening or a halo sign; MRI, CT angiography, and PET-CT help assess extent and activity. A temporal artery biopsy can confirm giant cell arteritt when cranial involvement is suspected.

Treatment and prognosis

Early treatment with glucocorticoids is essential to prevent complications, notably vision loss in giant cell arteritt. Immunosuppressive medications or biologic agents may be used for refractory cases. With prompt therapy, prognosis improves, though relapses are possible and long-term monitoring is often required.

See also: vasculitis, giant cell arteritt, Takayasu arteritt, polyarteritis nodosa.