The diagnosis of giant-cell arteritis (GCA), the most common form of medium and large-vessel vasculitis, remains difficult in primary care. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature found that the mean diagnostic delay experienced by patients is 9 weeks, and the delay is influenced by the disease characteristics. Of particular concern is the finding that the delay is much longer in case of non-cranial symptoms, reported to occur in the majority of cases. These findings represent a benchmark for diagnostic delay of GCA and highlight the need for improved public awareness and fast-track diagnostic pathways.

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BMC Medicine is pleased to announce the launch of a special thematic collection on landmark oncology trials. This article collection includes carefully selected articles from invited experts on landmark trials that had the most substantial influence on the clinical practice or provided some critical evidence that enhanced our understanding in this field. It will also feature current topics in the trial design. The collection launches with an editorial by our Editorial Board Members, Prof. Helena Earl, Prof. Stefano Molica and Prof. Piotr Rutkowski.

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