Dog Community

Can anyone tell me about GCA?

Posted : 9/16/2008 8:52:38 AM

It is Giant Cell Arteritis and my Mum has just been diagnosed with it. I'm working hard to understand it and I know that there are a lot of really knowledgable iDoggers out there. Can anyone tell me what they know?

All I know so far about treatment is that she is on really high doses of prednisone.

kpwlee

Posted : 9/16/2008 9:25:04 AM

I had never heard of it but here are some resources:

http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/GCA_new.asp

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/giant-cell-arteritis/DS00440

apparently the high dose of prednisone is necessary at first but in my quick review of the above she likely will remain on it

Wishing you and her the best of luck!

Karen (and Bugsy of course)

VanMorrison

Posted : 9/16/2008 10:51:37 AM

My Dad (a doctor) and Mum recently got back together which is a blessing in this case. My Mum is in denial about being ill and Dad is ensuring that she takes care of herself etc.

The Mayo clinic link that you provided above gave me the best description et al that I have seen yet - THANK YOU! My Dad sent me some links but they are so scientific that I find them hard to read.

I know that my Mum would adore Bugsy too so his well wishes are great!

kpwlee

Posted : 9/16/2008 11:39:16 AM

glad that helped - the Mayo site is excellent and reliable which is important in researching health issues lots of bizarre info on the net.

VanMorrison
I know that my Mum would adore Bugsy too so his well wishes are great!

I'm sure given the opportunity he would shower her with many kisses