Ultrasound Scan:
Temporal Artery Doppler

This scan usually takes between 15-20 minutes to complete.

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A Temporal Artery Doppler study involves the arteries around the side of your face assess the blood flow to your brain. This ultrasound requires direct contact with your skin. We generally don't need anything clothing removed for this scan.

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We will ask you to lie on your back on our examination bed. During the scan we will apply gel to the side of your face and use the ultrasound machine to look at the the arteries. You will hear noises from the ultrasound machine; this is all normal and is the sound of the blood flow moving through your arteries.

A temporal artery ultrasound is performed to evaluate the temporal arteries, which are located on the sides of the head, for signs of inflammation or narrowing. It is primarily done to assist in the diagnosis of temporal artery disease, also known as giant cell arteritis or temporal arteritis.

 

Temporal artery disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the blood vessels, particularly the temporal arteries. It can lead to symptoms such as severe headaches, scalp tenderness, vision changes, and jaw pain. If left untreated, it can potentially result in vision loss and other serious complications.

 

The ultrasound examination allows the healthcare professional to visualise the temporal arteries and assess their condition. It is a non-invasive procedure that utilises high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the arteries. The ultrasound images can provide valuable information about the structure and blood flow within the temporal arteries.

 

A temporal artery ultrasound is typically performed when temporal artery disease is suspected based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. It helps in confirming the diagnosis, ruling out other causes of similar symptoms, and guiding treatment decisions.

If temporal artery disease is suspected, a positive finding on the ultrasound, such as thickening of the arterial walls or signs of inflammation, can support the diagnosis. It can also help determine the extent of involvement and monitor the response to treatment.

The exact cause of temporal artery disease, also known as giant cell arteritis or temporal arteritis, is not fully understood. However, several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing the condition. These risk factors include:

 

Age

Temporal artery disease primarily affects individuals over the age of 50, and the risk increases with advancing age. It is most commonly diagnosed in individuals over 70 years old.

 

Gender

Women are more commonly affected by temporal artery disease than men. The condition is two to three times more prevalent in females.

 

Genetic factors

There may be a genetic component to temporal artery disease, as it tends to occur more frequently in individuals with a family history of the condition. Certain genetic variations and immune system genes have been associated with an increased risk.

 

Caucasian ethnicity

Temporal artery disease is more common in individuals of Caucasian (European) descent compared to other ethnic groups. The condition is less prevalent in Asian, African, and Hispanic populations.

 

Polymyalgia rheumatica

Temporal artery disease is strongly associated with another inflammatory condition called polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). Approximately 50% of individuals with PMR also develop temporal artery disease, and the conditions often occur simultaneously or in close succession.

Temporal artery disease, also known as giant cell arteritis or temporal arteritis, is a condition characterised by inflammation of the temporal arteries, which are located on the sides of the head. This condition primarily affects individuals over the age of 50 and can lead to various symptoms. Common symptoms of temporal artery disease include:

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Headache

Persistent, severe headaches, often located in the temple area, are a common symptom of temporal artery disease. The headache may be throbbing or pulsating and can be accompanied by tenderness over the affected artery.

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Scalp tenderness

Many individuals with temporal artery disease experience tenderness or sensitivity when touching the scalp, particularly along the course of the temporal arteries. The scalp may feel sore or painful to the touch.

 

Vision changes

Temporal artery disease can affect the blood vessels supplying the eyes, leading to various visual disturbances. These may include blurred or double vision, sudden vision loss or dimming, or a sensation of seeing flashing lights.

 

Jaw pain

Some individuals with temporal artery disease may experience pain or discomfort in the jaw, particularly during chewing or speaking. This pain can be felt in the temples, jaw joint (temporomandibular joint), or face.

 

Fatigue and malaise

Temporal artery disease can cause a general feeling of fatigue, weakness, or malaise. Individuals may feel tired or lack energy, even with minimal exertion.