RhAPPcast: Where We Stand: Current Approaches to Managing GCA

Welcome back to RhAPPcast, the official podcast of rheumatology advanced practice providers. In this episode, host Amanda Mixon continues the GCA Fireside Chat series, focusing on the evolving treatment landscape for giant cell arteritis (GCA). Together with expert guests Naomi Amadala, CRNP, and Dr. Michael Putnam, we explore the real-world challenges and clinical decision-making that go beyond diagnosis. From high-dose steroids to steroid-sparing agents such as IL-6 inhibitors and methotrexate, our discussion highlights current strategies, barriers to care, and insights into tapering, patient safety, and long-term disease management. You’ll also hear perspectives on tocilizumab, emerging options like abatacept, the role of imaging and biomarkers, and how clinicians can better address patient fears, affordability, and treatment accessibility. Whether you are a seasoned rheumatology professional or looking to deepen your understanding of GCA, this conversation offers valuable evidence-based insights to apply in clinical practice.

Stay tuned for the next episode in the series, Inside the Evidence: A Deep Dive into the SELECT-GCA Study, and explore more digital education on the Content Rheum at RHAPP.org.