[Recommendations for defining giant cell arteritis fast-track clinics].

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Vascular Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a serious condition requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.
• Current diagnostic pathways can be lengthy, delaying crucial interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish clear criteria for defining effective fast-track clinics (FTC) for the acute diagnosis of GCA.
• To optimize the diagnostic process for suspected GCA cases.

Main Methods:

• Recommendations developed by an expert committee.
• Defined criteria include clinic accessibility, appointment scheduling, specialist involvement, patient volume, sonologist experience, and equipment availability.
• Collaboration protocols for ancillary diagnostic services (neurology, ophthalmology, MRI, PET-CT, biopsy) were outlined.

Main Results:

• FTCs should offer low-threshold, prompt access (ideally within 24 hours) on weekdays.
• Require at least two GCA-expert physicians, with FTCs managing ≥50 suspected GCA patients annually.
• Sonologists need extensive experience (≥300 temporal/axillary artery exams) and specific ultrasound equipment (≥18 MHz probe).

Conclusions:

• Standardized FTCs are essential for timely and accurate GCA diagnosis.
• These clinics facilitate rapid integration of clinical assessment, ultrasound, and advanced imaging/biopsy procedures.
• Implementation of these FTC criteria can improve patient outcomes by reducing diagnostic delays.