had strange sensations in left upper side of head, doc ran a blood test and called today saying something was elevated and had temple vein and wants me to get a bioposy of the temple vein? I do not know what they are talking about or what they are looking for? any information before I allow this done?
Hello, You might have a temporal arthritis (also called giant cell arthritis). It is an inflammation of the artery which supplies blood to the head and brain. The disease presents mostly with tenderness in the upper ear zone (temporal zone) and headaches. Also, it might cause fever, muscle pain, joint pain, and jaw pain after chewing. The condition is diagnosed by blood test initially (measuring erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and confirmed by biopsy. Treatment should not be delayed.  Initially your doctor prescribes high dose steroids to prevent eye complication. The dose will be subsequently decreased. You might also prescribe aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory Chat Doctor.  During the treatment you should have follow-up eye exam. Best regards,