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Investigating Aortic Valve Calcification via Isolation and Culture of T Lymphocytes using Feeder Cells from Irradiated Buffy Coat
Published on: February 4, 2021
[Polymyalgia rheumatica and aortic involvement]
Abstract:
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder that affects people over 50 years of age, characterized by pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulder and pelvic girdles. PMR may occur as an isolated condition or concomitantly with giant cell arteritis. Similar to other inflammatory rheumatic disorders, PMR is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk due to inflammatory changes in large arterial vessels, which result in an increased chance of developing aneurysms and dissections. International guidelines do not provide specific indications about the management of PMR patients with aortic wall inflammation. In this review, we propose a diagnostic pathway for the management of PMR patients with aortic involvement based on literature data and personal experience.
Insights
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition affecting those over 50. This review proposes a diagnostic pathway for managing PMR patients with aortic involvement, addressing a gap in current guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Inflammatory Disorders
Context:
- Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition primarily affecting individuals over 50.
- PMR presents with characteristic pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulder, and pelvic girdles.
- PMR can occur independently or alongside giant cell arteritis.
Purpose:
- To address the lack of specific guidelines for managing PMR patients with aortic wall inflammation.
- To propose a structured diagnostic pathway for identifying and managing aortic involvement in PMR.
- To integrate literature data and clinical experience for improved patient care.
Summary:
- PMR is linked to increased cardiovascular risk, particularly concerning large arterial vessels, leading to potential aneurysms and dissections.
- Current international guidelines lack clear recommendations for managing PMR patients with concurrent aortic inflammation.
- This review offers a novel diagnostic approach for PMR-associated aortic disease.
Impact:
- Enhances the clinical management of polymyalgia rheumatica patients with potential cardiovascular complications.
- Provides a framework for early detection and intervention in PMR patients with aortic inflammation.
- Contributes to improved patient outcomes by addressing a critical unmet need in rheumatological and cardiovascular care.
Related Concept Videos
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management

