Should I have temporal biopsy for GCA even after 8 weeks prednisone?

Posted by sophies @sophies, Mar 9 11:46am

I was diagnosed with PMR eight weeks ago. Sed rate was only 32 and CRP was 12. I started prednisone at 20MG for 1 week, then 15 MG for 19 days then 12.5mg for another 19 days as advised by my primary care DR. Now I have finally gotten in to see rheumatologist but I have concern about temporal headaches. Unfortunately, I cannot remember if they started before the prednisone. Anyway, Rheumatologist wants to check for GCA with biopsy and I would rather less invasive ultrasound. According to what I have read, it would seem that both tests would be compromised because of steroid use. And, with negative results, do you take a chance and believe there is no GCA? I don't currently have any otherGCA symptoms. Any thoughts or advice would be so appreciated.

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gonzalescb70 | @gonzalescb70 | Mar 21 5:38pm

I’ve thought about that for myself however, the treatment doesn’t change even if a biopsy confirms GCA. For me, I chose to just do the steroid therapy. Also, if you’re already on steroids, it may not be reliable i.e. there may be no giant cells in the artery to observe. I’d do noninvasive methods and take the steroids.