GIANT CELL ARTERITIS Flashcards
1
Q
Clinical Features
A
Age >50
Headache
Jaw claudication
Vision loss
Diplopia
Temporal artery abnormality on exam
30-50% of patients also suffer from polymyalgia rheumatica
2
Q
Investigations
A
CRP and ESR (normal in 5-30%)
Temporal artery biopsy
3
Q
Management
A
Vision loss: Methylprednisolone 1000 mg/day IV for 1-3 days in patients with vision loss followed by PO prednisone 40 mg/day
No vision loss but suspicion: 40 - 60 mg PO prednisone with urgent follow up
Urgent Ophthalmology consultation
