A 60-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer presents with new onset of joint pain and morning stiffness in her hands. She mentions that she started on a new medication for her cancer two months ago. What could be the potential cause?
In a patient with a history of breast cancer who is on medication, it is important to consider aromatase inhibitor-induced arthralgia. Aromatase inhibitors, a treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, can cause joint pain and stiffness, mimicking the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. If the symptoms significantly affect her quality of life, her oncologist may consider switching to another type of medication, if possible.