GCA is a disease characterised by inflammation of large and medium sized blood vessels.
An alternative name for this condition is “Temporal Arteritis” as the blood vessels in the temple area of the head (sides of the forehead) are commonly affected.
The giant cells referred to are specific collections of immune system cells seen in the areas of inflammation if a biopsy is performed.
This condition is one of the commonest forms of vasculitis.
It is more commonly seen in older patients and is seldom diagnosed below the age of 50.
On 5 October 2026, CSL and the Swiss company Alentis Therapeutics announced a global partnership to develop lixudebart. This study medicine is aimed at AAV with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (AAV-RPGN), the form in which kidney function can decline within days or weeks.
Since avacopan was taken off the European market, many patients with GPA or MPA ask: is anyone else working on medicines that could reduce our use of corticosteroids such as prednisolone? The answer is yes, but it will likely take several years before they reach patients.
On 7 November 2026, the Italian patient association APACS will bring people living with EGPA, their families and clinicians together in Milan for a day of learning and open discussion.
