MSK

Question 1

What is polymyalgia rheumatica

Answer 1

inflammatory condition that causes muscle stiffness

Question 2

What is the typical age of patients with Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)?

Answer 2

Typically, patients are over 60 years old.

Question 3

What is the usual onset of Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)?

Answer 3

The onset is usually rapid, often occurring in less than 1 month

Question 4

What are the main symptoms of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Answer 4

• aching, bilateral morning stiffness in proximal limb muscles
• there is no true weakness of limb girdles, any muscle weakness is due to myalgia
• mild polyarthralgia
• lethargy, low-grade fever, night sweats

Question 5

Where does the pain and stiffness typically occur in polymyalgia rheumatics

Answer 5

• shoulders
• pelvic girdle
• neck

Question 6

What are the key investigation findings for Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Answer 6

• Raised inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR > 40 mm/hr)
• normal creatine kinase and EMG.

Question 7

Management of polymyalgia rheumatica

Answer 7

prednisolone e.g. 15mg/od
* patients typically respond dramatically to steroids, poor response suggests an alternative diagnosis