What is the recommended therapy for temporal arteritis?

Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is a condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent serious complications, such as vision loss. The primary treatment for this condition is high-dose corticosteroids, with prednisone being the most commonly used agent. The use of prednisone at 60 mg daily helps to reduce inflammation and prevent vascular occlusion that could lead to ischemic complications.

In the management of temporal arteritis, initiating treatment with corticosteroids is critical. The recommended therapy is typically started as soon as the diagnosis is suspected, rather than waiting for confirmation through a temporal artery biopsy, given the potential for rapid progression of symptoms and complications. The dosage of 60 mg daily provides a strong anti-inflammatory effect that is essential at the outset of treatment.

Re-evaluating the patient in one month is also part of standard care, as it allows healthcare providers to adjust the dosage based on the patient’s response and any side effects encountered during the course of therapy. Continuous assessment ensures that the treatment plan remains effective and safe.

Other medication options, such as opioids or NSAIDs, may not adequately address the severity of inflammation or the potential complications associated with temporal arteritis. Thus, high-dose prednisone is the cornerstone of therapy for this condition.