Palindromic rheumatism
Palindromic Rheumatism
Palindromic rheumatism (pronunciation: /ˌpælɪnˈdroʊmɪk ˈruːməˌtɪzəm/) is a rare form of rheumatism that causes episodes of joint inflammation and pain. The term "palindromic" refers to the episodic nature of the symptoms, which come and go in a pattern similar to a palindrome (a word or phrase that reads the same backward as forward).
Etymology
The term "palindromic rheumatism" is derived from the Greek word "palin", meaning "again", and "dromos", meaning "course" or "running". This refers to the recurring nature of the symptoms. "Rheumatism" is derived from the Greek "rheumatismos", which means "to suffer from a flux", referring to the flow of symptoms.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of palindromic rheumatism is sudden and severe joint pain, which can last from a few hours to several days. The pain is often accompanied by redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joints. The joints most commonly affected are the knees, wrists, and hands, but any joint can be involved.
Causes
The exact cause of palindromic rheumatism is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Some researchers believe that it may be triggered by an infection or environmental factors.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of palindromic rheumatism is based on the characteristic pattern of symptoms and the exclusion of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Laboratory tests and imaging studies may be used to help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for palindromic rheumatism is aimed at relieving pain and reducing inflammation during episodes. This may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). In some cases, treatment may also include medications to suppress the immune system.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Palindromic rheumatism
- Wikipedia's article - Palindromic rheumatism
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