Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) Pathway

Get your tests

You will need blood tests, like a C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test, to check for signs of inflammation in your body.

If your healthcare provider thinks you might have giant cell arteritis (GCA), you may also go for an ultrasound of your temporal artery (temporal ultrasound) or a temporal artery biopsy. The temporal artery is located on the side of your head, near your temple. The temporal ultrasound will create pictures of the blood vessels in your head, neck, and sometimes armpit to check for inflammation.

If you need these tests, your healthcare provider will refer you to a diagnostic imaging centre for an ultrasound or to a surgeon for a biopsy.

GCA pathway map

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) Pathway

Download or print the full patient pathway (PDF) and summary (one-page PDF) to learn more about how to manage and treat GCA.
Patient Pathway Summary

Current as of: September 13, 2024

Author: Provincial Pathways Unit, Alberta Health Services

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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