musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Key Points
Polymyalgia rheumatica affects adults > 55, causing proximal myalgias and stiffness. It is present in 40 to 60% of patients with giant cell arteritis. Diagnose clinically, sometimes with supportive evidence of an elevated ESR and dramatic response to low to moderate doses of corticosteroids. Treat with corticosteroids, eventually tapering if possible. Warn patients about symptoms of giant cell arteritis. 