Difficulties in differential diagnosis and modern approaches to treatment of polymyalgia rheumatica
Polymyalgia rheumatica (RPMA) is an inflammatory disease of the musculoskeletal system that is rarely diagnosed in patients over 50 years of age. RPMA is characterized by pain and prolonged morning stiffness in the shoulder, pelvic girdle, and neck. To date, there is no single clinical, laboratory or instrumental sign, the presence of which would confirm the diagnosis. The main method of treatment is oral therapy with glucocorticosteroids. Alternative treatment options include steroid-sparing therapy (methotrexate, tocilizumab). NSAIDs may be used to reduce pain.