[Direct examination in immunofluorescence of temporal artery sections. Value and limitations (author's transl)]

Although invariably seen with immunofluorescence in Giant Cell Temporal Arteritis, deposits of immunoglobulins and complement in the wall of the temporal arteries is nevertheless not specific to his condition. The results of the preliminary study reported here would seem to indicate that this phenomenon is related to the dysimmune state. A simple investigation, temporal artery biopsy with examination in immunofluorescence may be used to provide evidence for a diagnosis of circulating immune complex disease, the type of which can be defined only by the clinicopathological and biological context. Thus the practical value of temporal artery biopsy goes far beyong giant cell arteritis only.