Polymyositis
About Polymyositis
A rare disorder that causes muscle weakness and pain. The cause is not known but is felt to be an autoimmune disease which means the patient's immune system becomes over active and attacks the muscles causing inflammation of the muscle fibers. The muscles of the upper legs often are affected first causing problems climbing stairs and getting out of a chair. This disease can be very serious causing breathing problems, abnormal beating of the heart, heart failure, and difficulty swallowing. Polymyositis usually affects people between the ages of 30 and 60, and some patients can have other autoimmune diseases such as lupus.Symptoms
The symptoms may be gradual or rapid in onset, and may increase and decrease with time. Patients experience muscle weakness, fatigue, pain, problems swallowing, heart palpitations, and breathing difficulties.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical will be performed. Blood tests such as a creatine kinase and imaging tests will be done. Studies to evaluate the muscles such as an electromyograph (EMG) and a muscle biopsy may be performed. The provider may also look for special antibodies (autoantibodies) that determine if the body is attacking itself.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electomyography (EMG), MRI.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the severity of the symptoms. Patients are encouraged to exercise and use physical therapy to decrease the stiffness and improve mobility. Medications are used to decrease the inflammation and they include steroids and immunosuppressive drugs. Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy may also be used.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Rheumatology · Neurology · Pediatric Neurology · Pediatric Rheumatology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Polymyositis.