#5-74E. Uncovering Hidden Vasculitis: Subclinical GCA and Relapse Risk in PMR (Ann Rheum Dis, 2024)

Are we undertreating polymyalgia rheumatica patients who harbor hidden vascular inflammation? In a prospective multicenter study of 150 patients with PMR, vascular ultrasound identified subclinical giant cell arteritis in one-third of cohort members, who subsequently exhibited a fourfold higher relapse rate compared to those with isolated PMR (62% vs 16%). Furthermore, lower initial prednisone doses and rapid tapering within the first three months were key risk factors for relapse, though non-standardized treatment protocols across centers represent a notable limitation. Screening for subclinical arteritis using ultrasound may enable tailored, GCA-like glucocorticoid regimens to prevent disease recurrence.

Citation: De Miguel E, Karalilova R, Macchioni P, et al. Subclinical giant cell arteritis increases the risk of relapse in polymyalgia rheumatica. Ann Rheum Dis. 2024. DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224768

URL: https://doi.org/10.1136/ard-2023-224768

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