Interesting GP appt (update to ESR/CRP post)

[Mai45]

A couple of days ago I asked for a link to the research on the 20% or so of us who develop PMR without raised ESR or CRP levels. Thanks to PMRPro and the others who replied.

Armed with this, I asked my GP why at the last appointment, with a trainee GP sitting in, she introduced me as “appeared to develop PMR in 2016”. Was she still not convinced?

Her answer was interesting in that yes, she was quite sure I had PMR. I had ticked every box for all other symptoms, other possible diagnosis had been (mainly) ruled out, and I had an immediate response when (finally) I was prescribed Prednisolone. There was no quibble over the 20% or so non raised markers, as she was aware of the research.

The problem, she said, was sometimes with lack of wider experience with younger colleagues. Most GPs were well aware of PMR and faced with the 80% with raised markers were geared up to help. “We recognise and are used to the 80%” she said, “and look for them first. The problem for the 20% is that you may be meeting a GP who has not seen one of the 20% before, and we do need to be sure”

I’m very aware I am lucky to have a really good GP and I thought her answer was refreshingly honest. Hopefully it might help someone else in the early stages who finds themselves in the same position.

[SheffieldJane]

That makes sense. I would be reassured.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Sensible lady - one to hang on to. But there is never a 100% cast-iron diagnosis. The best evidence will be a PET-CT and the typical "shape" of the inflammation.

[Blearyeyed]

I love it when I hear a tale like this .

An intelligent Doctor who realises that actually being honest about how complex getting a diagnosis can be doesn't make them seem unskilled , but actually more Professional.