Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Mapping B-cell Biology Across the Cardiovascular Territories of Giant Cell Arteritis: Towards a New Therapeutic Approach (RituxiMAP GCA)

This study, called RituxiMAP GCA, is investigating Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), a serious condition that inflames blood vessels. Currently, strong steroid medications are the main treatment, but they can have many side effects. We believe that certain immune cells, called B cells, play a key role in GCA and other heart-related conditions. For the first time, we're using a special scanning technology to actually see these B cells directly in the blood vessels of living patients with GCA. Our goal is to map where these B cells are and understand their role. If we can successfully spot them, it could open the door for new treatments that target B cells, similar to methods already used for other conditions. This could offer better alternatives to steroids for people with GCA.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

University of Edinburgh

Enrolment target

Start

01 Apr 2026

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2029

Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)

What is this study about?

Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) is a condition that causes inflammation in your body's medium and large blood vessels. This inflammation can be serious and potentially life-threatening. The main treatment at the moment is strong steroid medications. While these can help, they often come with many unwanted side effects. Because of this, doctors are urgently looking for new and better treatments for GCA.

Inside your body, you have tiny cells called B cells, which are part of your immune system. Researchers believe these B cells might play a big part in causing the blood vessel damage seen in GCA and other heart-related conditions. Before now, it's been difficult to see these B cells in action within the blood vessels of living patients. This study uses a new, special type of scan to do just that – it will help us literally 'see' where these B cells are located and how active they are in people with GCA.

We'll be using a special tracer connected to a drug called rituximab, which is already used to treat other immune conditions by targeting B cells. If our scan successfully shows the B cells in the blood vessels of GCA patients, it could be a game-changer. This information would help doctors understand if new treatments that specifically target B cells (like rituximab) could be effective in treating GCA, potentially reducing the need for steroids and better managing the condition.

Key takeaways

Exploring new treatment options for Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA).
Using a ground-breaking scan to directly 'see' B cells in blood vessels.
Understanding B cells' role could lead to steroid-sparing treatments.
This is an observational study, not a new treatment testing.
Participation could help develop future GCA therapies.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for specific groups of adults to take part. This includes people aged 50 or over who have recently been diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) and have signs of active inflammation in their larger blood vessels. These participants will also be starting steroid treatment for their GCA.

We are also looking for two other groups of people to compare with the GCA patients. One group will be adults aged 18 or over who have another type of immune system condition that involves B cells and is currently active. The other group will include adults aged 50 or over who have a specific type of blood vessel widening, called an atherosclerotic aortic aneurysm, which will be identified by scans.

There are also reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you've already had GCA diagnosed in the past, or if you've been taking steroid medications for longer than four weeks just before the study starts. You also can't be pregnant or breastfeeding, or have severe kidney problems. Everyone who takes part needs to be able to understand the study and agree to follow the safety advice regarding the special scan.

Quick self-check

Are you aged 50 or over?
Have you been recently diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)?
Are you able to have a special scan?
Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
Have you been on steroid medicine for GCA for less than 4 weeks?
Can you understand and agree to the study requirements?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you won't be given any new treatments; the study is about understanding your condition. The main part of your participation will involve a special type of full-body scan, called a PET scan. Before the scan, you will receive an injection of a special substance (called zirconium-89-labelled rituximab) which helps us to see the B cells. This type of scan has been safely used in studies for other health conditions. We will also collect blood samples and, for those with GCA, we might compare the scan results with samples from any relevant biopsies you've had. We will also monitor how your steroid treatment (which you would be receiving anyway for your GCA) might affect B cell activity. This is a pilot study, meaning it's an initial test to see if this scanning method works. The total duration of your participation will depend on the specific aspects being assessed for your group.

Potential risks and benefits

There aren't any direct medical benefits expected from taking part in this specific study, as it's an observational study focused on understanding the disease. However, the information gathered could greatly help future research to develop new and better treatments for people with GCA, potentially reducing the need for steroids. The main risk involves the exposure to a small amount of radiation from the special scan, similar to what you might experience with other medical scans. The medical team will discuss all potential risks with you in detail. Remember, taking part in any study is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw at any time without affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Common questions

What are B cells?

B cells are a type of white blood cell, part of your immune system, that help fight off infections. In some conditions, like GCA, they might mistakenly attack healthy parts of your body.

What is Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA)?

GCA is a condition where the blood vessels, especially larger ones, become inflamed. This can cause various problems and is currently mainly treated with steroid medications.

Why is this scan important?

This special scan allows doctors to 'see' B cells in your blood vessels for the first time. This helps us understand their role in GCA and decide if new treatments targeting B cells could be helpful.

Are there any side effects from the scan?

The scan involves a small amount of radiation, which the medical team will explain fully. The substance injected is generally safe and has been used in other studies.

Will taking part change my current treatment?

No, this study will not change your regular medical care or the treatments your doctor has planned for you. It's a study to gather information.

How to find out more

Neeraj Dhaun, MBChB PhD

bean.dhaun@ed.ac.uk +441312426777 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.