Step forward towards treat-to-target management of giant cell arteritis: patients stratification aiming to targeted remission – updated guidelines

Abstract

Abstract Background The aim of this work is to develop guidelines for health care professionals in the giant cell arteritis diagnosis and management, based on patients’ stratification and targeted outcome measures. Results Fourteen expert panel had completed the two rounds surveys. After the end of round two, twenty three recommendations were released distributed on 8 domains. The percentage of the agreement on the recommendations was 76.9% to 100%. All 23 key questions were answered at the end of the second round with agreement upon. Conclusion Patient stratification facilitate the initiation of an appropriate management approach for patients with giant cell arteritis aiming at achieving targeted disease remission state and prevention of visual loss and/or development of ischaemic events. Treat to Target approach is a new concept in giant cell arteritis management which aims to provide tight control to achieve and maintain disease remission. This work defined the treatment targets in relation to the disease stage.