Temporal Arteritis: Diagnosis


A diagnosis of temporal arteritis is based largely on symptoms and a physical examination. The exam may reveal that the temporal artery is inflamed and tender to the touch, and that it has a reduced pulse.

Your doctor may order a temporal artery biopsy. In this procedure, a small section of the artery is removed through an incision in the skin over the temple area and examined under a microscope. A biopsy that is positive for giant cell arteritis will show abnormal cells in the artery walls.


More Temporal Arteritis Information

Connect with Us Online


Become our fan on facebook!   Subscribe to our YouTube channel!   Follow us on Twitter!   Subscribe to our News RSS feed.

eNewsletters and More

Rheumatology Program


Many new therapies for inflammatory rheumatologic diseases have been made available, and we are focused on finding the best therapeutic program for every patient. 

Learn more.