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Epidemiology of polymyalgia rheumatica
1Clinic of Rheumatology, DI.M.I., University of Genoa, Italy. cimmino@unige.it
Objective:
To review the data on the epidemiology of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), in particular geographical and temporal differences in incidence and its risk factors including the actinic hypothesis.
Methods:
Evaluation of the literature.
Results:
Epidemiological data show that the incidence of PMR varies between 12.7/100,000 in Italy and 112.6/100,000 in Norway with a geographical gradient of increased frequency in the northern hemisphere. The incidence of PMR and giant cell arteritis (GCA) have increased in recent years. This observation may be related to a greater awareness of the disease but also to real epidemiological changes. Risk factors for PMR/GCA include infections, smoking, sun exposure, and nulliparity.
Conclusion:
Epidemiological studies have helped to unravel the etiopathogenic factors at work in PMR/GCA. More data are needed on the correlation between the incidence of PMR/GCA and epidemics of infectious diseases and on environmental and biological risk factors.
Insights
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.