Authors' reply

EDITOR,--There is universal agreement that giant cell arteritis should be treated with systemic corticosteroids, but controversy remains about the optimum dose and duration of treatment. Most clinicians have strong views on the dose required, but some are based on tradition and anecdote. Most studies have used 40-60 mg prednisolone a day unless visual symptoms develop.1 Some ophthalmologists have recommended beginning treatment with at least 80 mg prednisolone daily.2 Intravenous steroids are occasionally used if visual complications occur. …