Temporal artery biopsy: concise guidelines for otolaryngologists

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Giant cell arteritis (GCA), or temporal arteritis, is a systemic vasculitis affecting elderly individuals.
• It primarily targets large and medium-sized arteries, with a notable predilection for craniofacial vessels, especially the temporal artery.
• GCA presents with diverse symptoms, including visual disturbances, headaches, fever, audiovestibular issues, and jaw claudication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of otolaryngologists' role in diagnosing and managing GCA.
• To emphasize the need for understanding GCA's head and neck manifestations.
• To review the indications, techniques, and complications of temporal artery biopsy in GCA diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentations of GCA with a focus on head and neck symptoms.
• Discussion of diagnostic criteria and differential diagnoses for facial pain and headaches.
• Analysis of the role and technique of temporal artery biopsy in confirming GCA.

Main Results:

• GCA can manifest with varied and sometimes subtle head and neck symptoms.
• Otolaryngologists are frequently involved in the diagnostic process.
• Temporal artery biopsy remains a key diagnostic procedure, requiring careful consideration for optimal yield.

Conclusions:

• Otolaryngologists must be aware of the diverse head and neck presentations of GCA.
• Understanding the natural history of GCA and biopsy techniques is essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Prompt recognition and appropriate biopsy can improve patient outcomes by facilitating timely treatment.