Diagnostic Utility of Computed Tomographic Angiography in Giant-Cell Arteritis

Background and Purpose-The diagnosis of giant-cell arteritis (GCA) is challenging. Superficial temporal artery biopsy and ultrasound are positive in only 50%. We evaluated computed tomographic angiography (CTA) of the head in GCA. Methods-This case-control study was performed using a prospective GCA registry. Cases presented with stroke symptoms, had a CTA, and were subsequently diagnosed with GCA. Age- and sex-matched controls presented with stroke symptoms, had a CFA, and were not diagnosed with GCA. CTAs were evaluated for the presence of superficial temporal artery abnormalities. Results-Fourteen cases met the inclusion criteria and were matched with 14 controls. Blurred vessel wall margins and perivascular enhancement was found in 10 cases (71.4%) and 2 controls (14.3%). CTA has an accuracy of 78.6%, sensitivity of 71.4%, and a specificity of 85.7% for GCA. Conclusions-CTA detects superficial temporal artery abnormalities in GCA. This may facilitate early diagnosis and prompt implementation of potentially sight-saving and stroke-preventing treatment.