What is a notable sign of temporal arteritis observed in an eye examination?

A swollen pale optic disc is indeed a notable sign of temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the temporal arteries and can lead to significant complications, including vision loss. In an eye examination, the optic disc may appear swollen and pale due to the ischemic effects of the impaired blood supply when the inflammation affects the blood flow to the optic nerve. This finding is particularly important because it can indicate the presence of optic nerve involvement, which is a serious complication of temporal arteritis.

Other conditions may cause changes in the optic disc, but the specific combination of swelling and pallor points toward an inflammatory process such as temporal arteritis. Recognizing this sign is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment, as prompt intervention can help prevent permanent vision loss associated with this condition.