Palindromic Rheumatism

Palindromic rheumatism is an inflammatory disorder of unknown cause characterized by recurrent attacks of musculoskeletal pain, swelling and stiffness, lasting for hours or days. It is often mistaken for rheumatoid arthritis due to similar symptoms, however the two conditions are distinct. Palindromic rheumatism is more common in middle-aged men and diagnosis is based primarily on the patient's history, as there are no specific laboratory tests or X-rays that can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, but may also include corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and other medications. With proper treatment, symptoms can be well controlled and long-term damage to the joints can be prevented.