ROCHESTER, Minn., Oct 15, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Minnesota researchers have found an effective way to treat giant cell arteritis, a cause of headaches, fatigue, muscle pain and even blindness.

The Mayo Clinic researchers found that high doses of intravenous steroid hormones called methylprednisolone were effective in controlling the disease and shortening the length of treatment for GCA, a clinic spokesman said Friday.

The new approach not only allowed a more rapid reduction in dosage of prednisone, a drug commonly used to manage the disease, but it also helped delay recurrence of symptoms.

"We found that these patients do better clinically," said Dr. Mehrdad Mazlumzadeh, a rheumatologist. "We want to not only bring relief to patients, but also reduce their risk of complications that can result from prolonged treatment of GCA with oral prednisone, the first-line treatment."

Although there is no cure for GCA, prednisone reduces inflammation, though with significant side effects.

GCA is an inflammation of the arteries, particularly those in the head, neck and arms. GCA is found in about 200 of every 100,000 people over the age of 50. It primarily affects people of age 50 and older, and women more than men.

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