Abstract
Pain in the musculoskeletal system and therefore joint pain is one of the most common reasons for consulting a general practitioner (GP). Inflammatory rheumatic diseases are among the important differential diagnoses. However, the prevalence of rheumatological diseases is significantly lower than that of degenerative causes of pain. Incorrect referrals can be avoided if the causes of pain are better differentiated in GP practices. This article presents the first differential diagnostic steps that make it easier for the GP to make further treatment decisions. Physical examination, laboratory diagnostics and imaging are discussed, and the concept of "clinically suspect arthralgia" as well as the possible effects of treatment trials with glucocorticoids are presented.
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