Muscle Disease Flashcards
What is polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis?
Chronic inflammatory condition that is proximal myalgia of the hip and shoulder girdles and morning stiffness of more than an hour
When do symptoms improve in polymyalgia rheumatic and giant cell arteritis?
as the day goes on and with movement
What is PMR nearly always associated with?
a raised CRP and PV/ESR
What rapidly improves symptoms of PMR?
low dose steroids
How long is prednisolone dose reduced over?
18 months
What is the most common form of systemic vasculitis in adults?
Giant cell arteritis
What are the histopathological markers of GCA?
Transmural inflammation of the intima, media and adventitia of affected arteries
What are the common symptoms of GCA?
Visual disturbances, headache, jaw claudication and scalp tenderness
How do you make the diagnosis of GCA?
raised inflammatory markers and a positive temporal artery biopsy
How do you treat GCA?
with corticosteroids and it is tapered over two years
is polymyositis and dermatomyositis more common in men or women?
women
What age groups are commonly affected by polymyositis and dermatomyositis?
45-60s
What is polymyositis?
symmetrical proximal muscle weakness in upper and lower extremities with insidious onset
What investigations are indicated for polymyositis?
raised inflammatory markers, serum CK levels 10X the normal level, ANA, anti-Jo-1 and anti-SRP. MRI, EMG and biopsy are also indicated
How do you manage polymyositis?
prednisolone and methotrexate
