BSR and BHPR guidelines for the management of polymyalgia rheumatica

“I suddenly felt I’d aged”: A qualitative study of patient experiences of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)

“…The symptoms of PMR have a wide differential diagnosis and controversy still exists as to the defining characteristics of the condition [19]. The diagnosis is often made over a series of consultations forming a process which may include an initial trial of treatment [8]. Understanding and acknowledging patient anxiety and addressing their specific fears during this process could improve patient experience.…”

“…At each consultation assessment of disease activity and response to treatment is needed, as well as evaluation of treatment side effects and assessment for complications [8]. Exploring and understanding the patient experience of PMR as an illness is crucial in order to facilitate shared decisions about treatment, balancing symptom control and functional enablement against adverse effects of steroid therapy.…”

Concise guidance: diagnosis and management of polymyalgia rheumatica

“…The objective of this concise guidance is to produce a summary of the longer British Society for Rheumatology and British Health Professionals in Rheumatology guidelines 1 and to provide recommendations in the following areas:…”

“…1 Please refer to the full guidance for details of the methodology. The guidelines were developed using the AGREE criteria and Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network guidance was used to grade the recommendations.…”

“…The list includes infection, neoplasia, inflammatory arthritis and connective tissue diseases. 4 Bhaskar Dasgupta, consultant in rheumatology, honorary professor, Essex University Southend University Hospital, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex Concise Guidance to Good Practice Series editors: Lynne Turner-Stokes and Bernard Higgens *For membership of the guideline development group please see the full guideline 1 Concise guidance: diagnosis and management of polymyalgia rheumatica Bhaskar Dasgupta on behalf of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica Guideline Development Group*…”