The superficial temporal artery is an important blood vessel located on the side of the head. It supplies blood to various parts of the scalp and face. Understanding its location and function is helpful for general health awareness and can be particularly relevant in certain medical contexts.
Anatomical Location
The superficial temporal artery originates as one of two terminal branches of the external carotid artery, a major vessel in the neck. It begins within the parotid gland, situated below and in front of the ear, at the level of the mandibular neck. From this origin, the artery ascends, passing superficially over the zygomatic process (cheekbone) of the temporal bone.
Continuing its upward path, the superficial temporal artery reaches the temporal region of the scalp, approximately 5 centimeters above the zygomatic process. Here, it divides into two main branches: the frontal (anterior) branch and the parietal (posterior) branch. The frontal branch extends upward and forward towards the forehead, providing blood to the muscles, skin, and scalp in that area. The parietal branch curves upward and backward on the side of the head, supplying blood to the parietal and temporal regions of the scalp, roughly where one might wear a headset. The exact branching pattern can vary among individuals.
Clinical Relevance
The superficial temporal artery’s accessible location makes it clinically relevant. It serves as a common pulse point, utilized by healthcare professionals to assess a patient’s heart rate, especially in emergency settings or during physical examinations.
Beyond pulse assessment, this artery is involved in giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis. This inflammatory condition causes the artery walls to become inflamed, swollen, and narrowed. Symptoms of GCA often include severe headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain during chewing, and vision problems, including potential vision loss. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with corticosteroids are recommended to prevent serious complications like permanent vision loss or stroke.
A temporal artery biopsy, where a small section of the artery is removed for microscopic examination, is a standard method for diagnosing GCA. This procedure confirms the presence of inflammation and characteristic giant cells within the artery walls. The artery’s course also makes it an important anatomical landmark for certain medical procedures, including those involving the face and scalp.
Palpating the Temporal Artery
To locate your superficial temporal artery, begin by placing your index and middle fingers gently on the side of your head. The ideal spot is directly in front of your ear, slightly above the level of your earlobe, in the area commonly referred to as the temple. You might find it helpful to position your fingers where the earpiece of sunglasses would rest.
Apply light pressure with your fingertips; pressing too hard can compress the artery and make the pulse difficult to detect. You should feel a gentle, rhythmic throbbing sensation, which is the blood flowing through the artery with each heartbeat. The pulse might be subtle, so patience and a delicate touch are beneficial. It is normal to feel this pulsation, and it can be felt on both sides of the head.
If you are unable to find a pulse, try adjusting the position of your fingers slightly forward or backward from the initial spot. If you experience any unusual pain, tenderness, or a persistent throbbing sensation accompanied by other symptoms like severe headache or vision changes, consult a healthcare professional. These could indicate an underlying medical issue.