Combining vascular ultrasound and blood markers to improve diagnosis and monitoring of giant cell arteritis

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This is a prospective observational cohort of patients referred for suspected giant cell arteritis who will undergo detailed vascular ultrasound and blood sampling for novel biomarkers. Investigators will compare an extended ultrasound protocol with standard ultrasound recommendations and correlate ultrasound findings with biomarker levels and clinical outcomes over time. The study aims to identify imaging and blood-based signatures that predict long-term disease control and distinguish active inflammation from chronic vascular changes. Results will be used to inform more individualized treatment strategies and reduce unnecessary prolonged steroid exposure.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria

* Individuals referred for evaluation due to suspected giant cell arteritis (GCA).
* Ability to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria

* Previous diagnosis of GCA.
* Previous temporal artery biopsy performed as part of prior GCA evaluation.
* Treatment with high-dose corticosteroids (\>7.5 mg/day) for more than two weeks before initiation of the diagnostic work-up.
* Inability to provide informed consent.
* Inability to comply with the study protocol.

Where it's running

• Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhuset
  Gothenburg, Sweden Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Johan Skoog, MD, PhD
• Email: johan.l.skoog@vgregion.se
• Phone: +46313421000

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Optic nerve sheath ultrasound for diagnosing giant cell arteritis

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.