Polymyalgia rheumatica: a 10-year epidemiologic and clinical study

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common inflammatory condition affecting individuals over 50.
• Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a potential complication of PMR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence, clinical course, and treatment outcomes of polymyalgia rheumatica.
• To assess the relationship between PMR and giant cell arteritis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective identification of 96 polymyalgia rheumatica patients in Olmsted County, MN (1970-1979).
• Analysis of patient demographics, disease duration, treatment modalities (corticosteroids, NSAIDs), and outcomes.
• Incidence rates calculated based on age-specific population data.

Main Results:

• The annual incidence of PMR increased with age, peaking in those 70-79 years old.
• 86% of patients recovered, with a median disease duration of 11 months.
• Corticosteroids provided faster symptom response but led to more relapses and adverse reactions than NSAIDs.
• PMR did not impact patient survival.
• 15% of PMR patients also had giant cell arteritis.

Conclusions:

• Polymyalgia rheumatica is a common, generally self-limited disease in middle-aged and older populations.
• Treatment choice between corticosteroids and NSAIDs involves balancing speed of response against risks of relapse and adverse effects.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in polymyalgia rheumatica.