What is Temporal arteritis?

a vasculitis of unknown cause that affects medium and large-sized vessels arteries, also known as giant cell arteritis

What patient groups is Temporal arteritis most common?

occurs in those over 50 years old, with a peak incidence in patients who are in their 70s.

What are the main clinical features of Temporal arteritis?

• usually rapid onset (e.g. < 1 month)
• headache (found in 85%)
• jaw claudication (65%)
• tender, palpable temporal artery
• 50% have features of PMR

What are the investigations findings in Temporal arteritis?

• raised inflammatory markers
• temporal artery biopsy skip lesions may be present
• note creatine kinase and EMG normal

What is the management of Temporal arteritis?

• urgent high-dose glucocorticoids should be given as soon as the diagnosis is suspected and before the temporal artery biopsy
• urgent ophthalmology review

What are the main associations of Temporal arteritis?

There is an overlap between temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) - around 50% of patients will have features of PMR

What are the serious complications of Temporal arteritis?

permanent visual loss which may develop suddenly

What are the visual complications that can arise with Temporal arteritis?

• may result in temporary visual loss - amaurosis fugax
• permanent visual loss is the most feared complication of temporal arteritis and may develop suddenly
• diplopia may also result from the involvement of any part of the oculomotor system (e.g. cranial nerves)