J Clin Outcomes Manage
2009 Mar ;16(3):137-147
Polymyalgia rheumatica: to unmask the real culprit
Kimel AF, Schlesinger N
Educational Needs Addressed Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common disorder in the elderly population characterized by pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and pelvic girdle. Physicians must be aware that many conditions may mimic PMR, including diseases that carry a poor prognosis or require urgent treatment. Making an accurate diagnosis is important. There is no specific test for the condition, and physicians must keep the diagnosis in mind in patients with characteristic signs and symptoms. PMR frequently overlaps with giant cell arteritis, and patients must be followed closely for development of complications from this condition. Educational Objectives After participating in this CME activity, primary care physicians should be able to 1. Describe characteristic findings in PMR 2. Know the proposed diagnostic criteria for PMR 3. Name the conditions that can masquerade as PMR 4. Describe the treatment of PMR.
Case-Based Review, CME
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