All::Rheumatology::Diseases::Temporal arteritis
Study All (10) Add to study queue (10)Intro
What is temporal arteritis?
An unknown cause vasculitis affecting medium/large arteries, common in those over 50.
Temporal arteritisWhy is early recognition and treatment crucial?
To minimize complications like permanent vision loss.
Temporal arteritisWhat's the overlap between temporal arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)?
About 50% of patients with temporal arteritis also show features of PMR.
Temporal arteritisWhat are the key features of temporal arteritis?
Headache, jaw claudication, visual disturbances, tender temporal artery, and features of PMR.
Temporal arteritisWhat's the key investigation for visual complications?
Vision testing; anterior ischemic optic neuropathy is a common ocular complication.
Temporal arteritisWhat's the most feared complication of temporal arteritis?
Permanent visual loss, which may develop suddenly.
Temporal arteritisHow is temporal arteritis treated?
Urgent high-dose glucocorticoids, especially if there's evolving visual loss; biopsy may also be performed.
Temporal arteritisWhat is the expected response to glucocorticoid treatment in temporal arteritis?
There should be a dramatic response; reconsider the diagnosis if not.
Temporal arteritisWhy is urgent ophthalmology review crucial?
Visual symptoms need same-day assessment; visual damage is often irreversible.
Temporal arteritisWhat additional treatments may be considered for temporal arteritis?
Bisphosphonates for bone protection during steroid use; low-dose aspirin may be given, though evidence is weak.
Temporal arteritis