Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Fibromyalgia: Similarities and Distinctions

REVIEW
Abdulrahman Ali M. Khormi

 
For citation: Khormi AAM. Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Fibromyalgia: Similarities and Distinctions. International Journal of Biomedicine. 2026;16(2):145-150. doi:10.21103/Article16(2)_RA1
 
Originally published June 5, 2026

Abstract: 

This review explores the similarities and distinctions between polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and fibromyalgia (FM), focusing on pain mechanisms, clinical features, diagnostic challenges, and individualized treatment strategies. Although both disorders manifest as musculoskeletal pain syndromes with overlapping features, PMR is characterized by inflammation and glucocorticoid responsiveness, while FM is dominated by central sensitization mechanisms. This article emphasizes the importance of differentiating between the two for accurate diagnosis and tailored therapy. 

Main Points

  • PMR and FM share symptoms but differ in that PMR is inflammatory and FM is centrally mediated.
  • Distinguishing PMR from FM is very important to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate glucocorticoid use.
  • Diagnosis depends on symptoms, inflammation markers, imaging (for PMR), and classification criteria.
  • PMR is treated with glucocorticoids, while FM requires neuromodulators and non-drug therapies.
  • PMR and FM can coexist, especially in older adults, requiring tailored multidisciplinary care.
Keywords: 
polymyalgia rheumatica • fibromyalgia • central sensitization • inflammation • glucocorticoids • differential diagnosis
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Received January 28, 2026.
Accepted March 9, 2026.
© 2026 The Author(s). International Journal of Biomedicine is published by IMRDC.
This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license.