Should We Prescribe Aspirin for Patients with Giant Cell Arteritis? A Review of the Evidence

Abstract

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a common disorder which remains an important cause of permanent visual loss. Early corticosteroid treatment at an appropriate dose is effective, but two retrospective studies have also suggested that aspirin should be added to corticosteroid treatment in order to reduce thrombotic complications. Recent editorial and opinion articles have supported this suggestion, and prescription of aspirin to patients with GCA is common in general clinical practice. Here we review the evidence for the use of aspirin in the treatment of GCA, and indicate where there may be a lack of data to support its widespread prescription.

Keywords:

• Aspirin
• giant cell arteritis