Temporal Artery Biopsy

Abstract

Giant cell arteritis (also known as temporal arteritis) is a condition that causes a granulomatous inflammation of medium- to large-sized arteries. Patients most commonly present to the ophthalmologist due to acute or subacute vision loss often with headache. The vision loss occurs due to an ischemic optic neuropathy. The gold standard for diagnosis is a pathologic specimen showing the classic histological findings within the artery wall (transmural inflammatory infiltrate, giant cells, fragmented internal elastic lamina). The superficial temporal artery is the most common vessel affected, and since it is surgically accessible, it is frequently targeted for diagnostic purposes. A large specimen, generally 2–3 cm, should be obtained. Patients should have been evaluated and deemed appropriate for such surgical intervention. Patients should have been educated about the risks and benefits of the procedure, including alternatives.