RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Giant Cell Arteritis - Ways to Precision Medicine

This study is for people in the UK who have been diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) or Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR). It's a long-term study that will follow people over 5 to 10 years to understand their health better. Researchers want to see if regular check-ups can help predict problems with blood vessels, especially a main artery called the aorta. They are also looking at how certain medicines (glucocorticoids) affect patients over time. The study hopes to find new ways to tailor treatments for individuals by looking at different tests, including imaging scans and blood tests. Ultimately, the goal is to improve care and reduce side effects for people with these conditions.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Wuerzburg University Hospital

Enrolment target

400

Start

14 Nov 2025

Estimated completion

31 Jul 2033

Giant Cell Arteritis Polymyalgia Rheumatic (PMR)

What is this study about?

This study, called 'Giant Cell Arteritis - Ways to Precision Medicine', is all about learning more about two conditions: Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) and Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR). These are conditions that cause inflammation in the body. Researchers want to follow people with these conditions over a long period, typically 5 to 10 years, to see how their health changes and to understand their conditions better.

One of the main goals is to look at a large blood vessel in the body called the aorta. Sometimes, GCA can affect this vessel, leading to problems that need careful monitoring. The study aims to find out if regular scans can help doctors spot these problems earlier and understand what might increase a person's risk. They also want to learn more about the side effects people experience from common medications, particularly steroids (glucocorticoids), over several years.

The study also hopes to explore whether different kinds of tests – like advanced scans, blood tests, and eye exams – can help doctors group patients with GCA and PMR into smaller, more specific groups. This could mean that in the future, treatments can be chosen more carefully for each individual person, leading to better results and fewer side effects. They are also checking if a new MRI scan technique uses less dye, which is safer for some patients, works just as well.

Key takeaways

A long-term study for people with GCA or PMR.
Aims to understand blood vessel health and medication side effects.
Hopes to find ways to personalise treatments.
Involves observation, scans, and blood tests over several years.
No new medication is given as part of the study.
You can withdraw at any time without affecting your care.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. You must have also received a formal diagnosis of either Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) or Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR).

Unfortunately, if you are under 18 years old, you won't be able to join this study. Also, you need to be able to understand the study and agree to take part voluntarily.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)?
Or have you been diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)?
Do you understand what involved and are happy to agree to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This study is a ‘non-interventional’ study, which means you won't be given any new medications or treatments. Instead, the researchers will be carefully observing your health over time. This involves long-term follow-up, likely through regular clinic visits where doctors will assess your condition, perform standard examinations, and possibly take blood samples. You might also have imaging scans like MRI or other specialized tests, including eye examinations. The total duration of your involvement could be between 5 to 10 years, as the study aims to track health changes over a lengthy period.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study could offer several potential benefits, such as contributing to a deeper understanding of Giant Cell Arteritis and Polymyalgia Rheumatica, which may lead to improved future treatments for others. While there are no new medications involved, you will receive ongoing medical attention as part of your regular care, which is carefully observed. Potential risks are generally low, as the study primarily involves observation and standard tests. You might experience minor discomfort from blood tests or scans. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your ongoing medical care.

Locations (1)

Universitätsklinikum Würzburg
Verified postcode
Würzburg, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What are Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) and Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)?

They are conditions that cause inflammation, mainly in blood vessels (GCA) or muscles around the shoulders, neck, and hips (PMR).

Will I receive new medicine in this study?

No, this study is about observing your health and existing treatment. You won't be given new medications as part of the research.

How long will I be involved in the study?

The study involves long-term follow-up, typically over 5 to 10 years, to understand how your condition changes over time.

What is an aorta, and why is it important in this study?

The aorta is the body's main artery that carries blood from the heart. Sometimes GCA can affect it, and the study wants to see if regular checks can help detect problems early.

Can I leave the study if I change my mind?

Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

How to find out more

Michael Gernert

gernert_m1@ukw.de +4993120140100 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.