Neurology

Myositis

What is Myositis?

Myositis means inflammation of the muscles required to move your body. There are two specific kinds of myositis: polymyositis and dermatomyositis. Polymyositis is responsible for causing muscle weakness especially in the areas closest to the trunk of the body. Dermatomyositis is responsible for causing muscle weakness as well as a skin rash.
 

Who is impacted?

Patients who have an injury, infection or autoimmune disease can be impacted.
 

How is myositis diagnosed?

Myositis is typically diagnosed by a physical exam, lab and imaging tests, and possibly a muscle biopsy if necessary.
 

How is myositis treated?

There is currently no cure for these conditions, but they can typically be treated with a high dose corticosteroid for symptom control. Patients may also benefit from physical therapy, exercise, heat therapy, assistive devices, rest and other alternative medications.