Description
A condition in which there is chronic inflammation of the muscles. It's most often caused by an autoimmune disease, such as polymyositis or dermatomyositis, or infection. HIV and other viruses, bacteria (including mycobacteria), fungi, and parasites can cause myositis.
Symptoms
Muscle pain and weakness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Most people with a myositis have an elevated blood level of creatinine kinase (CK). Additional blood tests, including antibody tests for autoimmune disease, will be done to determine the cause of the myositis. An electromyogram (EMG) may be performed to help make the diagnosis. A muscle biopsy is the most definitive way to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Other Specific Tests: Muscle biopsy, autoimmune blood tests, creatnine kinase (CPK).
Specialists:
Neurology, Pediatric Neurology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Most people with a myositis have an elevated blood level of creatinine kinase (CK). Additional blood tests, including antibody tests for autoimmune disease, will be done to determine the cause of the myositis. An electromyogram (EMG) may be performed to help make the diagnosis. A muscle biopsy is the most definitive way to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Other Specific Tests: Muscle biopsy, autoimmune blood tests, creatnine kinase (CPK).
Specialists:
Neurology, Pediatric Neurology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the muscle inflammation but may include: corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medications (such as methotrexate), and/or antibiotics.