Biopsy of the Parietal Branch of the Superficial Temporal Artery for the Diagnosis of Giant Cell Arteritis

Abstract

Background: 

Biopsy of the superficial temporal artery (STA) is central to the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA), but determining the ideal biopsy site along the course of the STA continues to be a challenge. Traditionally, the frontal branch or preauricular region of the STA is biopsied because of their accessibility, but biopsy at these locations can produce visible cosmetic defects and social disruption that can be distressing to patients, as well as increase the likelihood of adverse events such as injury to the facial nerve. The authors describe a surgical technique of biopsy of the parietal branch of the STA to improve the patient's perioperative and postoperative experience.

Methods: 

In this retrospective review, 24 patients with clinical suspicion of GCA who underwent biopsy of the parietal branch of the STA were identified. Patients underwent mapping of the branches of the STA with Doppler ultrasound before the procedure. Biopsy of the parietal branch of the STA was conducted using a CO₂ laser.

Results: 

Twenty-four patients underwent biopsy of the parietal branch of the STA. Two patients were diagnosed on histopathology with GCA. All patients tolerated the procedure well and without complications.

Conclusion: 

Application of preoperative Doppler ultrasound mapping, use of a CO₂ laser for incisions and hemostasis, and selection of the parietal branch allowed for improved cosmetic outcomes, no associated adverse events, and improved overall patient experience. The authors advocate biopsy of the parietal branch of the superficial temporal artery for the diagnosis of GCA in the absence of contraindications.