title: Polymyalgia rheumatica: a comprehensive review of this debilitating disease.
abstract: Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a cause of moderate to severe musculoskeletal pain in older people. This debilitating disease is characterized by bilateral proximal aching and morning stiffness in the neck, shoulders, upper arms, lower back, hips, and thighs. This article includes specific assessments related to PMR and an associated disease, giant cell arteritis (GCA). A comprehensive review of the incidence, etiology, duration of illness, pertinent laboratory studies, and medical treatment is provided for health care practitioners. A patient teaching handout summarizes key concepts. Specific clues that help the practitioner recognize the disease in patients and associated treatments are emphasized.
authors.affiliation: University of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
authors.forename: D R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Carpenter
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hudacek
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D013700:Giant Cell Arteritis / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D008487:Medical History Taking; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011111:Polymyalgia Rheumatica / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D013664:Teaching Materials