Iatrogenic rheumatic syndromes in the elderly

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

• Rheumatic complaints are prevalent in the elderly population.
• Pharmacotherapy can uncommonly lead to autoimmune or musculoskeletal issues.
• Rare drug-induced rheumatic conditions include statin myopathy, drug-induced lupus, arthralgias, vasculitis, and tight skin syndromes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss iatrogenic causes of rheumatic conditions in the elderly.
• To identify potential inciting pharmacologic agents.
• To describe the spectrum of drug-induced rheumatic manifestations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pharmacotherapy-associated rheumatic disorders in geriatric patients.
• Analysis of case reports and clinical studies on drug-induced rheumatopathies.
• Synthesis of information on causative agents and clinical presentations.

Main Results:

• Identified various drug classes implicated in rheumatic conditions.
• Detailed specific iatrogenic rheumatic syndromes.
• Highlighted the importance of considering medication side effects in elderly patients with new-onset rheumatic symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacotherapy is an underrecognized cause of rheumatic diseases in the elderly.
• Early identification of drug-induced rheumatic conditions is crucial for appropriate management.
• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for medication side effects presenting as rheumatic complaints.