Myopathy (muscle disease)

About Myopathy (muscle disease)

A general term referring to any disease of muscles. Myopathies can be acquired or inherited, and can occur at birth or later in life. There are many inherited types including: muscular dystrophies, glycogen storage diseases, and congenital myopathies. Other myopathies include those cause by drugs (especially statins), alcohol, or toxins; some endocrine gland disorders, and the inflammatory myopathies, such as dermatomyositis and polymyositis.

Symptoms

Muscle pain and weakness.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Most people with a myopathy have an elevated blood level of creatinine kinase (CK). Additional blood tests will be done to determine the cause of the myopathy. An electromyogram (EMG) may be performed to help make the diagnosis. A muscle biopsy is the most definitive way to confirm the diagnosis.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment depends on finding and treating the specific cause. If caused by a statin or alcohol, stopping it can completely cure the condition. Physical therapy and symptomatic treatment may be the only therapies available for congenital myopathies. Corticosteroids, methotrexate and other immunosuppressive therapies are used to treat inflammatory myopathies.

Medical specialties

Internal Medicine · Neurology · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Pediatric Neurology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Myopathy (muscle disease).