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Giant cell arteritis — RCPSC IM MCQ

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HardRheumatologyGiant cell arteritisRCPSC IM

A patient has new headache, jaw claudication, visual blurring and CRP 110 mg/L. Ophthalmology notes an afferent pupillary defect. What treatment should precede temporal-artery confirmation?

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

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Correct answer: DStart glucocorticoids with specialist, biopsy and visual monitoring

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as C · C = shown as D · A = shown as E

C is correct: suspected GCA with visual ischemia requires treatment before biopsy confirmation. D is inadequate. E mislabels a threat to sight. A risks permanent loss. B does not suppress vasculitis.

Reference: Canadian Rheumatology Association, Clinical Guidelines: https://rheum.ca/resources/publications/