What are the demographics of temporal arteritis?

Temporal arteritis most often occurs in senior citizens, according to Mayo Clinic. About twice as many women develop this condition. People of Northern European descent, particularly Scandinavian, are at greater risk, as well.

In addition, about 15 percent of patients with polymyalgia rheumatica also suffer from temporal arteritis, Mayo Clinic reports. The average age the condition begins is 70. Temporal arteritis almost never affects patients under 50.

Temporal arteritis occurs when an artery that carries blood from the heart to the head is inflamed, Mayo Clinic explains. Though it is possible for the condition to occur in any artery, it is most common in the arteries of the temples.