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Epidemiology of polymyalgia rheumatica
1Clinic of Rheumatology, DI.M.I., University of Genoa, Italy. cimmino@unige.it
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|August 19, 2000
Summary
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) incidence varies geographically, being higher in the Northern Hemisphere. Risk factors for PMR and giant cell arteritis (GCA) include infections, smoking, sun exposure, and nulliparity.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) are inflammatory conditions with poorly understood etiopathogenesis.
- Geographical and temporal variations in incidence suggest environmental influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review epidemiological data on polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).
- To investigate geographical and temporal variations in PMR incidence.
- To identify risk factors for PMR and GCA, including the actinic hypothesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and evaluation of existing epidemiological data.
Main Results:
- PMR incidence shows a geographical gradient, increasing in the Northern Hemisphere (e.g., 12.7/100,000 in Italy to 112.6/100,000 in Norway).
- Incidence of PMR and GCA has risen, potentially due to increased awareness and actual epidemiological changes.
- Identified risk factors for PMR/GCA include infections, smoking, sun exposure, and nulliparity.
Conclusions:
- Epidemiological studies provide insights into the etiopathogenic factors of PMR/GCA.
- Further research is needed on the links between PMR/GCA incidence, infectious disease epidemics, and environmental/biological risk factors.