In temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis or Horton's arteritis, the temporal arteries (the blood vessels near the temples), which supply blood from the heart to the scalp, are inflamed (swollen) and constricted (narrowed).

What is inflammation of the temple?

Temporal arteritis (giant cell arteritis) is where the arteries, particularly those at the side of the head (the temples), become inflamed. It's serious and needs urgent treatment.

What causes inflammation of the temporal artery?

Temporal arteritis is a condition that causes inflammation of arteries—the blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart. The exact cause of temporal arteritis is unknown, but the inflammation appears to be a result of the immune system overreacting and attacking the body's own tissues.