Helpful Resources
Here’s some further reading and outside resources about giant cell arteritis (GCA). We’ll direct you to support groups and a website with more information about GCA.
Informational website
If you need more support but are unsure of where to start, we’ve provided a link to a website below that can help. This website is designed to help you learn more about vasculitis care.
Vasculitis Foundation® — A foundation made up of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals that:
- Advocates for advances in treatment and research of vasculitis disease
- Offers information on GCA
- Shares educational videos and patient stories
By visiting this site, you will be going to a site that is not controlled by or affiliated with Genentech. Genentech is neither affiliated with nor endorses the above organization. The use of any organization’s name does not imply or infer endorsement of Genentech, its research, or its products. The information provided by Genentech or this organization is meant for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace your healthcare professional’s medical advice.
Joining a support group
A great way to talk to others about GCA is to join a support group. GCA support groups exist online and in-person. They can provide resources that you may not know about, including places you can go for help. Most importantly, they can act as a safe place for you to listen to stories from other people living with GCA. If you’re comfortable enough, they can also become a place for you to share your own stories.
Be Your Own Healthcare Advocate
Don't forget to search online for vasculitis or GCA support groups that may exist in your area. There are also local caregiver networks you can find online.
Talking to Your Healthcare Professional
Our Doctor Discussion Guide
may be helpful for starting a conversation with your healthcare professional about your treatment options.
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A biologic is a type of medicine developed using processes that are similar to what happens in your body naturally. Biologics can be used to interact with certain parts of your body, like your immune system. They can also fight inflammation in certain diseases, like GCA.
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An inflammation of the blood vessels. The cause is often unknown.
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When a part of the body becomes swollen and painful.
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A flare is a sudden worsening of your disease. It can happen after you haven’t experienced symptoms for a long time. It’s also known as a relapse.
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A chemical messenger that tells the immune system to attack harmful bacteria and viruses. When your body produces too much IL-6, it causes the immune system to attack healthy cells.
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A decrease or disappearance in signs and symptoms.
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Under the skin.
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A sample of cells taken from the body in order to examine them more closely. A healthcare professional will recommend a biopsy when a test suggests an area of tissue in the body isn’t normal.
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A genetic predisposition means that a person may be more likely to develop a disease based on their genes. However, they may not see any symptoms unless something in the environment triggers the disease.
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Steroids, including cortisone and prednisone, are a type of medicine used temporarily to reduce inflammation.
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Biologics, a type of DMARD, are a class of arthritis treatments designed to target your immune system.
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The immune system is a complex network of organs and cells that protects the body from foreign substances such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses.