Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)

Investigation Details
Initial Tests Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), CRP elevation
Confirmatory Test Temporal artery biopsy, noting potential for skip lesions
Other Tests Creatine kinase and EMG are typically normal

 

Treatment Strategy

 

Effective management of GCA includes

 

Treatment Purpose and Effect
High-dose Prednisolone Primary treatment with immediate response expected
Low-dose Aspirin Added to prevent complications like thrombosis
Bisphosphonates Recommended for long-term steroid use to prevent bone loss
Urgent Ophthalmology Review Essential for patients with visual symptoms to prevent irreversible damage like blindness

 

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