Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis

Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2006 May;67(5):240-3. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2006.67.5.21062.

Abstract

Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis are the commonest inflammatory rheumatic conditions seen in the elderly. This review focuses on the diagnostic processes and complications of disease and treatment; and the safe management of these conditions with careful consideration of balance between benefits and long-term risks of glucocorticosteroid therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / diagnosis*
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / drug therapy
  • Glucocorticoids / administration & dosage
  • Glucocorticoids / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteoporosis / chemically induced
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica / diagnosis*
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica / drug therapy
  • Prednisolone / administration & dosage
  • Prednisolone / adverse effects
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Prednisolone