Análisis coste/efectivo del diagnóstico de la arteritis de la temporal

Temporal arteritis (TA) is the most common form of systemic vasculitis. Its diagnosis is based on criteria proposed by the American College of Rheumatology (1990), and its treatment is high-dose corticosteroids.

Our objective is to assess the cost of diagnosing TA, and secondarily, cost-effective analysis of different diagnostic strategies (clinical, biopsy, Doppler ultrasound) and therapeutic strategies (corticosteroid suspension).

Material and method

Observational, retrospective study has been carried out on patients with TA (2012–2021). Demographic data, comorbidities, signs and symptoms suggestive of TA were collected. TA was diagnosed with a score ≥3 according to American College of Rheumatoloy criteria (ACR-SCORE). The costs of diagnosis and treatment modification were analysed.

Results

Seventy-five patients have been included, median age 77 (46-87) years. Headache, temporal pain and jaw claudication were significant for the diagnosis of TA.

Patients with a halo on Doppler ultrasound and a positive biopsy have significantly elevated ESR and CRP compared to patients who do not.

The cost of the TA diagnosis was 414.7 euros/patient. If we use ACR-SCORE≥3-echodoppler it is 167.2 €/patient (savings 59.6%) and ACR-SCORE≥3-biopsy 339.75 €/patient (savings 18%). If the corticosteroid was removed and a biopsy was performed, 21.6 €/patient (94.7% savings), if the corticosteroid was removed and Doppler ultrasound was performed, 10.6 €/patient (97.4% savings).

Conclusions

Headache, temporary pain and jaw claudication are predictors of TA. Elevated ESR and CRP are predictors of positive biopsy and presence of halo on ultrasound.

The uses of ACR-SCORE≥3 with Doppler ultrasound or biopsy, and with corticosteroid suspension, are cost-effective.