Giant Cell Arteritis

Question 1

What is giant cell arteritis

Answer 1

o An inflammatory condition of the medium to large sized arteries in the body. Typically the carotid and the temporal artery. Can also affect the aorta or other large vessels. Often occurs in conjunction with PMR
o Older women

Question 2

S/s of giant cell arteritis

Answer 2

o New onset headache persistent often with flu like symptoms
o Unexplained fatigue or fevers
o PMR symptoms or Hx

Question 3

Diagnostics for giant cell arteritis

Answer 3

o ESR and SED rate
o Biopsy or temporal artery

Question 4

Treatment of giant cell arteritis

Answer 4

o Prednisone 40-60 per day
 Slowly taper 5-10mg per week, can take over a few months
o Actemara (Tocilizumab)
o Vitamin D +C, biophosphinates for osteoporosis