Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which condition is characterized by marked scalp tenderness and loss of vision?

1. Cluster headache

2. Migraine headache with aura

3. Migraine headache without aura

4. Giant cell arteritis

The correct answer is: Giant cell arteritis

The condition characterized by marked scalp tenderness and loss of vision is giant cell arteritis (GCA). This inflammatory disease primarily affects the large and medium-sized arteries, particularly those in the head, such as the temporal arteries. One of the hallmark symptoms of GCA is scalp tenderness, which occurs due to inflammation of the arteries supplying the scalp. Patients may experience pain when combing their hair or touching their scalp. Loss of vision is another serious complication associated with GCA, often resulting from inflammation of the ophthalmic artery, which can lead to irreversible vision loss if not treated promptly. Early recognition and treatment of giant cell arteritis are crucial to prevent these complications, making awareness of its symptoms essential for healthcare providers. In contrast, cluster headaches, migraines with aura, and migraines without aura do not typically present with scalp tenderness and vision loss. While migraines can cause significant headache pain and visual disturbances, they lack the specific combination of scalp sensitivity and potential loss of vision that defines giant cell arteritis. Understanding these distinctions can assist in the timely diagnosis and management of GCA in clinical practice.