Rheumatica Vs. Rheumatoid

Polymyalgia rheumatica and rheumatoid arthritis are inflammatory conditions, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While there are similarities in some of the symptoms, there are significant differences in diagnosis, treatment and duration of the conditions.

Causes

• As of 2009, neither condition has an established cause. Rheumatoid arthritis, however, is considered to be an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the body.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of both conditions include fatigue, anemia, fever and stiffness. Rheumatica generally causes pain in the muscles, while rheumatoid arthritis typically causes joint pain.

Diagnosis

• According to the NIH, there are no specific tests to diagnose rheumatica, and an unexplained fever may be the only symptom. Diagnosis for rheumatoid arthritis, however, is accomplished with an anti-CCP test (cyclic citrullinated peptide test).

Rheumatica Treatment

• Rheumatica is treated with low doses of corticosteroids, such as prednisone.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

• The NIH notes that rheumatoid arthritis requires a multifaceted treatment approach that includes medications, including prescription antirheumatoid medications, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. Other treatments include physical therapy and exercises, as well as surgery.

Long Term

• Rheumatica is a self-limiting condition that generally resolves within four years. Rheumatoid arthritis never resolves and typically requires treatment for life.