In polymyalgia rheumatica, what laboratory finding is most likely to be elevated?

In polymyalgia rheumatica, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is most likely to be elevated. This condition is characterized by widespread muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders and hips, which reflects an inflammatory process occurring in the body.

The ESR is a non-specific marker of inflammation, and in the context of polymyalgia rheumatica, it typically shows a significant increase due to the underlying inflammatory response. Elevated ESR levels are commonly used in clinical practice to help identify inflammatory conditions and monitor disease activity.

While C-reactive protein (CRP) is also a marker of inflammation and may be elevated in this condition, the ESR is more traditionally associated with polymyalgia rheumatica. Hemoglobin levels could actually be normal or decreased in certain cases, and platelet counts may vary depending on various factors. However, the hallmark of the inflammatory response in polymyalgia rheumatica is the elevation of ESR, making it the most indicative laboratory finding for this condition.