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An Immunohistopathologic Study to Profile the Folate Receptor Beta Macrophage and Vascular Immune Microenvironment in Giant Cell Arteritis
Published on: February 8, 2019
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Giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica: an update.
Miguel A González-Gay1, Trinitario Pina
1Epidemiology, Genetics and Atherosclerosis Research Group on Systemic Inflammatory Diseases, Rheumatology Division, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, IDIVAL, Avenida de Valdecilla, s/n, 39008, Santander, Spain, miguelaggay@hotmail.com.
Current Rheumatology Reports
|January 26, 2015
Summary
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are common inflammatory conditions in older adults. Recent advancements in imaging and targeted therapies, like anti-interleukin-6 receptor agents, offer new hope for managing these diseases, especially in refractory cases.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) are prevalent inflammatory conditions affecting individuals over 50, particularly in Western populations.
- Despite their frequency, ongoing questions persist regarding their epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnostic approaches.
- Large-vessel vasculitis is a key feature, necessitating accurate detection and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding and managing Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) and Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR).
- To highlight new diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for these related conditions.
- To provide an overview of current research on GCA and PMR.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on GCA and PMR.
- Focus on new imaging techniques for diagnosing large-vessel involvement.
- Evaluation of therapeutic options, including corticosteroids and novel agents.
Main Results:
- 18-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) shows promise in identifying large-vessel inflammation in GCA.
- Corticosteroids remain the primary treatment, but relapses are common.
- Anti-interleukin-6 receptor therapy demonstrates efficacy in patients resistant to corticosteroids.
Conclusions:
- Advanced imaging like FDG-PET aids in GCA diagnosis.
- Effective management of GCA and PMR requires addressing frequent relapses.
- Anti-IL-6 receptor therapy offers a valuable alternative for refractory GCA and PMR cases.
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