What is the condition indicated by an elevated C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in a middle-aged female?

An elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are indicative of inflammation in the body. In the context of a middle-aged female, these laboratory findings are particularly consistent with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). PMR is characterized by bilateral shoulder pain and stiffness, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fatigue and malaise.

The elevation of CRP and ESR reflects the underlying inflammatory process associated with this condition. PMR is common in individuals over 50 years of age and is strongly associated with a rapid response to corticosteroid treatment, reinforcing the inflammatory nature of the disease.

While rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and fibromyalgia can also present with elevated inflammatory markers, they typically have different clinical features. Rheumatoid arthritis often involves joint destruction and deformities, systemic lupus erythematosus presents with a wide range of systemic symptoms and autoantibodies, and fibromyalgia is primarily characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain without significant inflammatory markers.