Myositis (inflammatory myopathies)

What is Myositis?

Myositis (inflammatory myopathies) is group of disorders that cause inflammation and damage resulting in muscle weakness. There are multiple types of myositis (inflammatory myopathy), which require different diagnoses and treatments.

Symptoms

Weakness in the large muscles around the neck, shoulders and hips
Trouble climbing stairs, getting up from a seat or reaching overhead
Skin rashes
Choking while eating or food accidentally entering your lungs
Shortness of breath and coughing

Risk factors

Toxins
Infections
Family history
Autoimmune disease
Cancer

Diagnosing myositis

Complete medical history and physical exam
Laboratory testing
Nerve conduction study known as EMG
Muscle biopsy
Lung imaging (CT) and breathing tests in some cases

Treating myositis

Medications: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, methotrexate, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, intravenous immune globulin (IVIG), cyclophosphamide and rituximab
Physical therapy also plays an important role in regaining muscle strength and function