The Current Standardized Classification Systems and Risk Factors in Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a clinical syndrome characterized by pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulder and pelvic girdles; this disorder is the most common inflammatory rheumatism in the elderly (Caucasian) population. Difficulties in differential diagnosis and therapeutic protocols in PMR, but also progress of technology (ultrasonography in particular), led in the past decade to the development of more precise guidelines (BSR/BHPR 2010), original classification criteria (EULAR/ACR 2012) and recommendations for management of PMR (EULAR/ACR 2015), which all reflect the state of the art in the field of PMR management and are the main focus of the present article. At the same time, the body of knowledge expanded as concerns the major risk factors in PMR, primarily those related to overlap with giant cell arteritis, probability of malignant tumours and responsiveness to and/or toxicity of long-term (glucocorticoid) therapy. The current standardized classification systems contribute to reduction of risk factors associated with PMR. Adherence to these systems is an important precondition for a good clinical practice, especially in rheumatology.