What are polymyalgia rheumatica?

See below : Pmr is a disorder characterized by muscle pain, often around the shoulders & hips. Often seen in late middle aged or elderly individuals. It can be associated with temporal arteritis that has the symptoms of headaches, jaw fatigue and vision problems. Early recognition is important. There is no confirmatory test; however an elevated sed rate or CRP can aid in diagnosis. Steroids are the treatment.

Autoimmune disease: Polymyalgia rheumatica is an autoimmune, inflammatory disease typically involving the shoulders/neck and possibly hips/low back that starts in those over 50.

Immune disorder: Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an autoimmune-type disorder which affect mostly people older than 50.Frequently starts in the shoulders or neck w/pain & weakness.Left untreated it can damage tendons & muscles permanently.It responds very well to steroid treatment, but that has it's drawbacks too as long-term steroid use has complications, as well.No one knows exact cause.May be genetic factors.

Standard rx?: Has been with prednisone at moderately high doses. I am a fan of weekly subcutaneous methotrexate, 25 mg /week. The new IL-6 inhibitors are very effective but costly. I've seen too many steroid side effects from prednisone!