GCA relapse ?

[Buster1610]

I have been on prednisolone for the last two years for PMR i was on 4mg ,in March diagnosed with GCA had a temporal biopsy and ultrasound both with negative results. My Rheumatologist put my steroids up to 40mg a day now

Reduced to 15mg but think headache and scalp sore coming back . Won’t see my rheumatologist until November should I up my steroids. I seemed ok on 20mg

Your advise would be very welcome

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Just because biopsies were negative, doesn’t always mean no GCA….and if GCA type symptoms have returned, then you need medical advice.. Do you have a telephone number for Rheumy Dept ? If not, then contact GP or NHS111

… in meantime I’d be inclined to go back to 20mg.

[Buster1610 in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you I will give the Rheumy line a call

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Buster1610]

Good.. please let us know what they say.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Buster1610]

I doubt there will be anyone there at this time so if the symptoms worsen, have a Plan B in place!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

You need to contact your rheumatology team. As DL says, negative biopsies doen't mean it isn't GCA. it means they didn't find what would prove it was and there are several reasons for that. Then the diagnosis depends on a clinical evaluation of the symptoms and a decision on the balance of probability.

If you can't get hold of the rheumy team, then you need to speak to another doctor - GP or 111 and possibly even the ED,