Polymyalgia manifestations in different conditions mimicking polymyalgia rheumatica

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a generally benign syndrome involving the n eck shoulder; and hip girdles in the elderly. However; none of the clinical and laboratory findings are specific for this syndrome. Different diseases may present with features suggesting PMR. The consideration of other condi tions which in some cases resemble PMR is very important, as their therapy and prognosis differ completely from that of PMR. Four patients presenting with typical PMR manifestations, who were finally diagnosed as having condi tions very different from PMR, are described The importance of the differen tial diagnosis in patients presenting with polymyalgia symptoms is underlin ed.