Current advances in giant cell arteritis

Curr Opin Neurol. 2021 Feb 1;34(1):133-141. doi: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000000889.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The aim of this study was to present the latest advances in giant cell arteritis (GCA) care, and recent national and international rheumatology societies guidance which influences clinical practice.

Recent findings: Cranial ultrasound reduces diagnostic delay and improves clinical outcomes. Immediate high dose glucocorticoids remain the standard treatment for GCA. Controlled trial evidence using Tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist, shows good clinical efficacy with steroid-sparing effects.

Summary: Improved patient outcomes require formalizing pathways to diagnosis and closer liaison with rheumatology for long-term management with second-line therapies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized / therapeutic use
  • Delayed Diagnosis
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / diagnosis
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / therapy*
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians' / standards
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians' / trends*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • tocilizumab