Discontinuation of therapies in polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis

CER6930
2013 Vol.31, N°4 ,Suppl.78
PI 0086, PF 0092
Vasculitis

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PMID: 24129145 [PubMed]

Received: 30/08/2013
Accepted : 30/08/2013
In Press: 04/10/2013
Published: 04/10/2013

Abstract

Glucocorticoids are highly effective in treating polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis, but their use is associated with numerous adverse events. Therefore, it is important to use them for the shortest period of time possible. The published evidence suggests that discontinuation of GC is feasible in a substantial number of patients with polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis after an adequate period of treatment, provided that glucocorticoids are tapered gradually. Recurrences are relatively infrequent in polymyalgia rheumatica and somewhat more common in giant cell arteritis. Immunosuppressive agents may be used in patients with frequently relapsing or recurring disease to decrease exposure to glucocorticoids.