Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis: A Review Article

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Polymyalgia rheumatic (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA) are common inflammatory rheumatic diseases primarily affecting the elderly.
• These conditions exhibit significant overlap in pathogenesis and epidemiology, often occurring concurrently.
• PMR is the most common inflammatory rheumatic disease in the elderly population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the key features, diagnosis, and relationship between Polymyalgia rheumatic and giant cell arteritis.
• To highlight the clinical presentation and diagnostic considerations for these overlapping rheumatological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation.
• Supporting laboratory evidence aids in diagnosis.
• Clinical examination includes assessment of symptoms like bilateral shoulder and pelvic girdle aching, stiffness, headache, and jaw claudication.

Main Results:

• PMR presents with bilateral aching and stiffness in the shoulders and pelvic girdle.
• GCA, the most common adult vasculitis, affects medium and large arteries and can lead to blindness.
• Approximately 50% of GCA patients also have or will develop PMR, indicating a disease continuum.

Conclusions:

• PMR and GCA are closely related rheumatological conditions often seen together in elderly patients.
• Accurate clinical diagnosis, supported by laboratory findings, is crucial for managing these potentially sight-threatening diseases.
• Understanding the disease continuum between PMR and GCA is essential for comprehensive patient care.