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Giant cell arteritis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareGiant cell arteritisUSMLE Step 3

A 72-year-old woman has new temporal headache, scalp tenderness, jaw claudication, and transient vision loss. ESR is elevated. Temporal artery is tender. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Start high-dose glucocorticoids immediately

Suspected giant cell arteritis with visual symptoms requires immediate glucocorticoids to prevent permanent vision loss.

Reference: American College of Rheumatology vasculitis guidance