Which tests?

[VeeWat]

Which blood tests diagnose PMR?

[Hidden]

There is No definitive test that says PMR Positive unfortunately.

They generally check your ESR, CRP & sometimes Plasma Viscosity, they may also do a Full Blood Count.

The problem is some people have PMR without a raised CRP or ESR but they still do have PMR which is usually confirmed by a trial of Prednisolone.

[Marilyn1959 in reply to Hidden]

A good Rheumy or GP will go by symptoms regardless of blood results, since some people have normal blood results despite having PMR.

[Yellowbluebell]

My levels were up but doctor based his diagnosis on my symptoms and response to 15mg pred before blood results came through.

[piglette]

My rheumy diagnosed PMR in seconds just by looking at me and asking me the problem. My GP failed to diagnose it at all.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

There are no blood test which diagnose PMR, just blood tests which may add to the suspicion. It is a clinical diagnosis, i.e. based on symptoms, but ESR and CRP are 2 tests which may be raised in 80% of patients - but for about 20% of us they are normal.

[stellafmdm]

I asked to see a Rheumy and he gave me an injection with miraculous results, all pain gone!