Why does temporal arteritis require urgent diagnosis?

Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, requires urgent diagnosis primarily to prevent serious complications such as blindness and cardiovascular issues, including coronary artery blockage. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the arteries, particularly the temporal artery, which can lead to decreased blood flow to the optic nerve. If left untreated, the inflammation can cause irreversible vision loss due to ischemic optic neuropathy.

In addition to the risk of blindness, temporal arteritis is associated with systemic complications, such as increased risk of aortic aneurysm or coronary artery disease. Rapid diagnosis followed by prompt treatment with corticosteroids can significantly reduce the risk of these serious complications. Therefore, recognizing the urgency for diagnosis is critical in managing the disease effectively, making this option the most relevant.