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Polymyalgia rheumatica--an underdiagnosed disease
T Susković1, D Vukicević-Baudoin
1Department of Medicine, Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital, Vinogradska c. 29, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
Abstract:
Characteristic features of polymyalgia rheumatica, a widely underdiagnosed disease, are described. The features of the disease are illustrated by the authors' own experience in the treated patients, and compared with literature data. According to the authors' experience, patients with polymyalgia rheumatica are mostly treated for inaccurate diagnoses such as cervicobrachial or lumbosacral syndrome, seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, unexplained febrile state, or precipitated erythrocyte sedimentation rate of unknown etiology. This results is delayed diagnosis or the accurate diagnosis is never reached at all.
Insights
Polymyalgia rheumatica is often underdiagnosed, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. Recognizing its characteristic features is crucial for accurate and timely patient care.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common rheumatic condition often underdiagnosed.
- Characteristic features of PMR are not widely recognized, leading to diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the characteristic features of polymyalgia rheumatica.
- To highlight common misdiagnoses and their impact on patient care.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical experience with treated patients.
- Comparison of clinical findings with existing literature data.
Main Results:
- Patients with PMR are frequently misdiagnosed with conditions like cervicobrachial syndrome, lumbosacral syndrome, or seronegative rheumatoid arthritis.
- Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate of unknown etiology is a common finding in misdiagnosed patients.
Conclusions:
- Underdiagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica is prevalent.
- Accurate diagnosis is often delayed or missed due to misinterpretations of symptoms and laboratory findings.
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