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Giant cell arteritis with visual symptoms — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

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EasyNeurologyGiant cell arteritis with visual symptomsRACP Adult Medicine

A 73-year-old woman has new temporal headache, jaw claudication and transient visual blurring. ESR is 86 mm/h and temporal artery is tender. High-dose corticosteroids have been started immediately. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: C — Temporal artery ultrasound or biopsy arranged urgently

Treatment must not be delayed, but suspected giant cell arteritis still needs confirmatory temporal artery imaging or biopsy where available. ESR follow-up alone does not establish the diagnosis. Coronary CT and troponin do not assess cranial arteritis, and starting steroids does not remove the need for diagnostic confirmation.

Reference: Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG); Australian rheumatology guidance