Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis: how best to approach these related diseases

J Fam Pract. 2013 Jun;62(6 Suppl):S5-9.

Abstract

Each of these painful disorders can be challenging to diagnose, and many patients have both. Adequate glucocorticoid dosing and gradual tapering are key to treatment success.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Giant Cell Arteritis* / complications
  • Giant Cell Arteritis* / diagnosis
  • Giant Cell Arteritis* / drug therapy
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica* / complications
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica* / diagnosis
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica* / drug therapy
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Glucocorticoids
  • Prednisone