Polymyalgia rheumatica: An update (Review)

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Immunology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting connective vascular tissue.
• Characterized by pain and morning stiffness in the neck, hip, and shoulder girdle, typically in individuals over 50.
• Presents with elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein, mimicking giant cell arteritis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current pathogenic hypotheses, diagnostic strategies, and treatment approaches for PMR.
• To highlight advancements since the 2012 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria.
• To discuss the impact of recent evidence, particularly from musculoskeletal imaging.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on recent decades of research in PMR.
• Analysis of data from musculoskeletal imaging studies.
• Evaluation of diagnostic and treatment advancements.

Main Results:

• Musculoskeletal imaging has provided substantial data impacting PMR diagnosis, monitoring, prognosis, and treatment response.
• Current understanding of PMR pathophysiology requires further research for personalized treatment development.
• There is a growing need for enhanced diagnostic techniques, including advanced imaging modalities.

Conclusions:

• PMR diagnosis and treatment can be challenging, necessitating ongoing research.
• Musculoskeletal imaging plays a crucial role in managing PMR patients.
• Future directions include deeper pathophysiological understanding and improved imaging for accurate diagnosis and therapy.