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Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Authors:
  • April Scott, NP
Publication Type:

Condition

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

(PMR)

Definition

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a disease that causes inflammation throughout the body. It results in muscle pain and stiffness.

Causes

The cause of PMR is unknown. Genes and things in the environment may play a role.

Risk Factors

PMR is most common in people over 50 years of age. It is more common in women and people of European descent.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PMR may include:

  • Muscle pain and stiffness in the hip, shoulder, or neck
  • Pain that spreads to the elbows or knees
  • Low energy
  • Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes
  • Weight loss without a known cause
  • Fever

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. PMR will be suspected if symptoms are there for more than 2 weeks.

A blood test may be done to rule out other causes.

Treatment

Treatment often leads to quick relief. Steps may include:

  • Corticosteroids—may be used for up to 2 years at low doses
  • Anti-inflammatory medicine
  • Interleukin-6 (IL-6) antagonists when corticosteroids cannot be taken or are not helpful

Long term steroids can cause bone loss. Supplements may be given to stop bone loss.

Prevention

PMR can not be prevented.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Polymyalgia rheumatica. American College of Rheumatology website. Available at: https://rheumatology.org/patients/polymyalgia-rheumatica.
  • Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/polymyalgia-rheumatica-pmr.
  • Polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/polymyalgia-rheumatica-giant-cell-arteritis.
  • 3/24/2023 EBSCO DynaMed Systematic Literature Surveillance https://www.dynamed.com/condition/polymyalgia-rheumatica-pmr: Kevzara label. FDA website. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/761037s013lbl.pdf.

Contributors

  • April Scott, NP
Last Updated:
2023-06-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.