Over 65

It is a disease which is not diagnosed under the age of 55.

The most problematic factor is the dependence on long-term steroids and the side-effects caused by this treatment. Side-effects are less if the maintenance dose is kept below 7.5mg per day. Azathioprine may be used to reduce the dose of steroid.

Medication to prevent osteoporosis (calcium and Vitamin D and a biphosphonate such as disodium etidronate) should be routinely used but particularly in the older person.