When should I consider referring a patient with suspected Giant Cell Arteritis to a specialist?

Refer a patient with suspected Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) urgently to a specialist (usually a rheumatologist) if GCA is strongly suspected based on clinical judgement, meaning GCA is more likely than any other diagnosis. This referral should ideally be on the same working day and in all cases within 3 working days.

If the patient has new visual symptoms such as transient or permanent visual loss or double vision, arrange an urgent same-day assessment by an ophthalmologist. In such cases, immediate high-dose corticosteroid treatment may be started in primary care while awaiting specialist assessment.

Do not delay referral while waiting for blood test results (e.g., ESR, CRP, full blood count) if GCA is suspected. Initiate high-dose glucocorticoids immediately when suspicion is strong to prevent serious complications like irreversible sight loss.