Giant cell arteritis in Finland from 2010 to 2020: incidence, developing diagnostic methods and disease presentation

• DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkaf055
• Publication Date: 2025-05-15T12:12:14Z
• Authors: Lauri Kivitalo; Kirsi Taimen; Tuulikki Sokka-Isler; Anne Kerola; Joonas Rautavaara; Laura Pirilä; Markku Kauppi; Joel Malila; Laura Haara; Laura Ryyppö; Taina Kotijärvi; Panu Saarenketo; Hannu Saarivaara; Juho Siltanen; Mika Helminen; Jarno Rutanen; Pia Isomäki
• Keywords: Presentation (obstetrics); Arteritis

Abstract Objectives To study the annual incidence, diagnostic methods used and clinical presentation of giant cell arteritis (GCA) over time in Finland. Methods Newly diagnosed GCA patients during 2010–2020 were retrospectively identified from four healthcare districts Medical records reviewed, data on methods, phenotype (cranial vs.s large vessel (LV)-GCA) analysed. Results We 602 newly patients. The incidence was 9.0 (95% CI 8.3 to 9.7) cases per 100 000 persons ≥ 50 years age significantly higher period 2016–2020 compared with 2010–2015: 11.3 10.1 12.5) 7.0 6.2 7.9), p < 0.001. Imaging- or biopsy-confirmed diagnosis recorded 75% patients, while 25% had a diagnosis. proportion imaging- diagnoses increased (2010–2015 64.7% 82.2%), that decreased. use imaging increased, whereas temporal artery biopsies decreased between two periods. LV-GCA discovered more often when 2010–2015 (in 34.0% 19.3% patients). Conclusion period, as well diagnoses, probably due frequent advanced methods. Additionally, commonly identified.