@betsyhase My Rheumatologist didn’t test, my primary care physician did and my numbers for then3 tests were so high he diagnosed and prescribed the initial script and it was after seeing my rheumatologist about 3/4 weeks later and discussion she chose not to test again as the initial bloodwork was current. I have not had any other bloodwork as of yet and will not until I am off prednisone. My choice as I am weaning off prednisone and unless we have issues both agree that not necessary

@betsyhase
If there are rheumatologists near you, perhaps you could try getting an appt with a PA - physician assistant if available. It worked for me and was very helpful til I saw a Dr..
It is possible to have seronegative RA.
I'd be curious to read a radiologist's report of your hand x-rays.

@betsyhase The first time I mentioned to her that my hand actually left one and wrist felt tight with pain and one finger feels almost like the middle joint catches on itself when bending and is misshapen a bit she did a physical exam. When I questioned if she thought it could be rheumatoid arthritis she told me no and I did question why? First my indicators didn’t point to that and because I was on a higher dose of prednisone (which is one of the medicines to treat RA) at the time she felt that it was not RA. Also just to be clear I also have sore/stiff hips in the morning and sometimes feel stiff and/or weak when standing up or getting out of car, but nothing like how I felt when I first developed PMR. I do not want to be on prednisone or any drug that can do as much harm to your body as good, any longer than necessary. At 70 I expect some aches, pains, and stiffness and as long as I am able to still exercise, walk a few miles a day, and other activities I am ok with those pains. Know your body and remember to be your own best advocate