Temporal Artery Biopsy

A temporal artery biopsy is a medical procedure used to diagnose conditions like giant cell arteritis, which causes inflammation of the arteries, particularly those located in the head and neck. During the biopsy, a small section of the temporal artery, located near the forehead, is surgically removed and examined under a microscope. This helps doctors check for inflammation and other signs of disease. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and may be recommended if a patient shows symptoms such as headaches, vision problems, or scalp tenderness. Early diagnosis is important for preventing complications.