Diseases Studied
The Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network is an NIH-funded research network of 20 active consortia or research groups working to advance treatment for diseases that are rare. Use the search tools on this page to find the diseases we currently study. You can reach out to the indicated consortia or research groups for more information on those diseases and studies underway.
This network focuses on clinical research and does not generally support clinical care outside of research activities. To learn about other rare diseases, please visit the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), which is an NIH program that helps the public find reliable information about rare and genetic diseases. Their staff are specialists. Contact them at 1-888-205-2311 or email GARDinfo@nih.gov.
All Diseases > Giant Cell (Temporal) Arteritis
Giant Cell (Temporal) Arteritis (GCA)
Alternative Names: Temporal Arteritis
Disease Category: Vasculitis Disorders
A rare disorder which is the most common blood vessel disorder affecting individuals over the age of 50. It is characterized by arteritis (inflammation of the medium and large-sized arteries in the body), particularly affecting the cranial (brain) arteries, especially the temporal arteries (arteries in the temples). Changes to affected artery walls over time result in poor blood circulation. Symptoms include headaches, visual disturbances, aneurysms (weakened areas in artery walls), stroke, fever, fatigue, malaise (general discomfort), depression, weight loss, and anemia (low red blood cells).
Research groups studying this disease
Vasculitis Disorders
Vasculitis Clinical Research Consortium (VCRC)
Vasculitis Foundation Canada
Vasculitis Foundation Canada encourages and supports research efforts for the cause and cure for all forms of Vasculitis.
Lauren Currie Twilight Foundation
We raise awareness of vasculitis, fund research and provide support to people with vasculitis in the UK.
Vasculitis Foundation
Supports and advances the cause of vasculitis patients, researchers, and healthcare professionals.