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Optimal management of giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica

Authors Charlton R

Received 25 January 2012

Accepted for publication 20 February 2012

Published 5 April 2012 Volume 2012:8 Pages 173—179

DOI https://doi.org/10.2147/TCRM.S13088

Review by Single anonymous peer review

Peer reviewer comments 2



Rodger Charlton

College of Medicine, Swansea University, Wales, UK

Abstract: Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are clinical diagnoses without "gold standard" serological or histological tests, excluding temporal artery biopsy for GCA. Further, other conditions may mimic GCA and PMR. Treatment with 10–20 mg of prednisolone daily is suggested for PMR or 40–60 mg daily for GCA when temporal arteritis is suspected. This ocular involvement of GCA should be treated as a medical emergency to prevent possible blindness and steroids should be commenced immediately. There are no absolute guidelines as to the dose or duration of administration; the therapeutics of treating this condition and the rate of reduction of prednisolone should be adjusted depending on the individual's response and with consideration of the multiple risks of high-dose and long-term glucocorticoids. Optimal management may need to consider the role of low-dose aspirin in reducing complications. Clinicians should also be aware of studies that indicate an increased incidence of large-artery complications with GCA. This clinical area requires further research through future development of radiological imaging to aid the diagnosis and produce a clearer consensus relating to diagnosis and treatment.

Keywords: arteritis, visual loss, blindness, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, stiffness, pain, aspirin, disability, glucocorticoids

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