Abstract
BackgroundPolymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common rheumatological disorder of older patients. The majority of UK patients are diagnosed and managed exclusively in general practice. In primary care, it has been shown that there is wide variation in practice, and established diagnostic criteria are infrequently used.AimThis study aims to investigate the diagnostic processes, management, and monitoring of patients with PMR in UK primary care.Design and settingThis is a retrospective cohort study set in primary care.MethodData were extracted from two interlinked primary care databases from north Staffordshire. Patients with PMR were identified using Read Codes and the relevant investigation, prescription, and consultation data were extracted and reviewed.ResultsThree hundred and four patients’ records were analysed. Documentation of symptoms leading to a diagnosis of PMR was found in 248 records (81.6%). A documented process of exclusion of relevant differential diagnoses was demonstrated in 68 (22.4%) patients. The mean initial dose of prednisolone was 21.5 mg. Referral to specialist care was made for 135 (44.4%) patients. Gastric prophylaxis was prescribed in 85 (28.0%) cases. Osteoporosis prophylaxis was prescribed to 183 patients (60.2%); 12 patients (3.9%) developed osteoporosis and 56 (18.4%) developed gastric symptoms that led to GP consultation.ConclusionThe management of PMR in general practice could be optimised. Identified areas for improvement include clear documentation of a process of exclusion of other diagnoses, and prophylaxis for potential treatment complications, including osteoporosis and gastric symptoms.
Highlights
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) was first described by Bruce in 1888,1 and is a common inflammatory rheumatological disorder affecting those aged >50 years,[2] with a peak incidence in the UK of 22.9 per 10 000 patient-years in the age range of 70–79 years.[3]
Documentation of symptoms leading to a diagnosis of PMR was found in 248 records (81.6%)
Osteoporosis prophylaxis was prescribed to 183 patients (60.2%); 12 patients (3.9%) developed osteoporosis and 56 (18.4%) developed gastric symptoms that led to GP consultation
Summary
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) was first described by Bruce in 1888,1 and is a common inflammatory rheumatological disorder affecting those aged >50 years,[2] with a peak incidence in the UK of 22.9 per 10 000 patient-years in the age range of 70–79 years.[3]. It has been shown that there is wide variation in practice, and established diagnostic criteria are infrequently used
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have