Polymyalgia rheumatica and temporal arteritis with sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis
J D Carter1, F B Vasey, K S Kanik
1Division of Rheumatology, University of South Florida, College of Medicine, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 81, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
Summary
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and temporal arteritis (TA) can involve axial joints, presenting as spondyloarthropathy with sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis. Recognizing this association is crucial for accurate diagnosis in patients with PMR and TA.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Inflammatory Arthritis
- Spondyloarthropathy
Background:
- Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and temporal arteritis (TA) are often linked to seronegative polyarthritis mimicking rheumatoid arthritis.
- Sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis are typically associated with spondyloarthropathies.
- These axial joint involvements are rarely reported in PMR and TA patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between PMR/TA and spondyloarthropathy features.
- To highlight the occurrence of sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis in PMR and TA.
- To inform clinicians about this potential diagnostic overlap.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients with TA/PMR and spondyloarthropathy features.
- Literature review of 30 additional PMR patients with sacroiliitis and/or osteitis pubis.
Main Results:
- Two patients with TA and PMR presented with sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis.
- A literature review identified 30 PMR patients with similar axial joint involvement.
- The findings suggest inflammatory arthritis in PMR/TA can affect axial joints.
Conclusions:
- Inflammatory arthritis associated with PMR and TA can manifest with spondyloarthropathy-like features, including sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis.
- Clinicians should consider this association to avoid diagnostic delays.
- Radiographic evidence of sacroiliitis and osteitis pubis should not deter a PMR/TA diagnosis.
