Temporal Artery Biopsy
Dedicated to Prompt and Accurate Diagnosis
Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis (TA), is a relatively rare, but serious disease that can lead to blindness. Making the diagnosis in quick fashion is critical and vascular surgeons help to do this. Vein & Vascular Experts works closely with your doctors to make sure you get a biopsy as soon as possible so that the correct measures are taken for your well-being.
Temporal Artery Biopsy Q & A
What is Giant Cell Arteritis?
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) or temporal arteritis (TA) is an inflammatory process affecting the medium to large sized arteries of the body. Initially, people may feel fatigued, have fevers, and lose weight unintentionally. However, as the inflammation of the arteries worsens, the arteries can shut down and close. This can lead to symptoms such as headaches in the temple areas, pain of the scalp, jaw pain and sudden blindness.
Who is at risk?
GCA typically affects older individuals, particularly women, who are in their 70s and 80s. Sometimes GCA can run in families and is associated with people of Scandinavian and Northern European descent. People with a condition known as polymyalgia rheumatica are known to be high risk for GCA as well.
How is GCA diagnosed
The rapid diagnosis of GCA is vital to treatment and outcomes. The diagnosis of GCA is made by taking a piece of a medium-sized artery and looking at it under the microscope. A vascular surgeon’s role is to perform a temporal artery biopsy (TAB). This is done to obtain a segment of artery to make a definitive diagnosis. Any artery could be chosen; however, the temporal artery is ideal for biopsy because it can be removed easily from the body without any significant impact on blood supply.
How is GCA treated?
GCA is treated with high-dose, strong, potent steroid medication. A person suspected of having GCA is usually started on steroids because of the serious risk of blindness that can occur if left untreated. However, rapid diagnosis with a TAB is important to decide whether the steroids need to be continued. This is because of the serious side effects that can occur with long-term steroid use including stomach ulcer, leg swelling, high blood pressure, increased risk of infection and brittle bones, just to name a few.