Predicting the risk of relapse in polymyalgia rheumatica: novel insights

Introduction Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common inflammatory disease found in people older than 50 years of Northern European descent. It is characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulders, arms, hips, and neck. Relapses are common in patients with PMR. Areas covered This review describes when and how relapses occur in patients with PMR. Potential predisposing factors associated with relapses and management are also discussed. An extensive literature search on the PubMed database was conducted for publications on 'polymyalgia rheumatica' AND 'relapses' AND 'risk factors'. Expert opinion Relapses are common in PMR being observed in approximately half of the patients. They often occur when the dose of prednisone is below 5-7.5 mg/day. The speed of glucocorticoid tapering is considered to be the main factor influencing the development of relapses in isolated PMRs. In addition, a genetic component may favor the presence of relapses in isolated PMRs. HLA-DRB1*0401 alleles were associated with an increased risk of relapse. An implication of the IL-6 promoter -174 G/C polymorphism and the GG241 ICAM-1 genotype was also reported. With regard to serological biomarkers, elevated levels of angiopoietin-2 were associated with an unfavorable course of PMR. Methotrexate and anti-IL6 receptor antibody tocilizumab may be required in PMR patients with multiple relapses.

Automated summary

Relapses are common in PMR, especially when the prednisone dose is below 5-7.5 mg/day. The speed of glucocorticoid tapering is considered a key factor influencing the development of relapses in isolated PMR. Genetic factors, such as HLA-DRB1*0401 alleles, may also increase the risk of relapse. Biomarkers like elevated levels of angiopoietin-2 may indicate a poor prognosis in PMR. Methotrexate and tocilizumab may be necessary for PMR patients with multiple relapses.