Tocilizumab in GCA — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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ModerateVasculitisTocilizumab in GCASCE Rheumatology

A 50-year-old woman with GCA on Prednisolone is being considered for Tocilizumab. According to NICE TA518 what are the criteria for Tocilizumab use in GCA?

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Correct answer: B — Relapsing or refractory GCA

NICE TA518 recommends Tocilizumab as an option for adults with relapsing or refractory GCA when glucocorticoid tapering has been unsuccessful or the disease relapses during tapering. It is used alongside a tapering course of glucocorticoids. The GiACTA trial demonstrated that Tocilizumab significantly reduced cumulative glucocorticoid exposure and sustained remission rates. The recommendation applies to both cranial and large vessel GCA. Treatment is typically for 12 months then reassessed.

Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/conditions-and-diseases/musculoskeletal-conditions