ACCORDING to a new study, achieving sustained drug-free remission (SDFR) in giant cell arteritis (GCA) is possible for a significant subset of patients, with low relapse rates once remission is reached. Published findings emphasize the potential for better long-term management strategies in this serious inflammatory disease.
The research analyzed data from 872 patients in the Spanish ARTESER registry, all followed for at least 2 years. SDFR was defined as a 12-month period free of active GCA symptoms after stopping treatment. Results show that 21.2% of patients achieved SDFR within 3–4 years of diagnosis, with cumulative rates increasing over time: 6.3% at 2 years, 20.5% at 3 years, and 25.3% at 4 years.
Key predictive factors for SDFR included fewer relapses and no requirement for intravenous methylprednisolone at diagnosis. Patients achieving SDFR could taper prednisone faster than others, significantly reducing their dosage to 5 mg/day sooner. Only 2.7% of these patients experienced a recurrence, with relapses occurring on average 19 months after achieving remission.
These findings suggest that while SDFR is achievable for a minority of patients, careful management of relapses and glucocorticoid use could improve outcomes. Clinicians may consider these factors when developing personalized treatment plans for patients with GCA.
Reference: Narváez J et al. Sustained Drug-Free Remission in Giant Cell Arteritis. Rheumatology. 2024;keae644.
