Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Abstract

Ninety-six patients with polymyalgia rheumatica were identified in Olmsted County, Minnesota, USA, during the 10-yr period 1970-1979. Giant cell arteritis was found in 15 of 96 patients. The average annual incidence of polymyalgia rheumatica in the population increased from 19.8/100,000 in persons 50-59 yr of age, to a maximum of 112.2/100,000 in persons 70-79 yr of age. Eight-three of the 96 patients (86%) had recovered by the end of the study. Median duration of the disease was 11 mo. (range, 2-54 mo.). Polymyalgia rheumatica had no effect on survival. Both corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were used in treatment. Response was more rapid in patients given corticosteroids, but nonsteroidal drugs were used successfully, especially in milder cases. Relapses and adverse reactions to treatment were more frequent in patients given corticosteroids. Polymyalgia rheumatica is a relatively common disease in middle-aged and older persons and generally runs a self-limited course.