All about polymyositis  causes of polymyositis symptoms of polymyositis diagnosis of polymyositis treatment for polymyositis |
|
How is polymyositis diagnosed?
Diagnosis of polymyositis isn't always easy and can be a lengthy process. Polymyositis is often suspected after a history and physical exam are done. The first step in the diagnosis of polymyositis is obtaining a history and physical examination compatible with the picture usually seen in this entity. The clinician will then obtain blood to check for creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) level, which is usually elevated. An electromyogram is then performed which usually shows findings of muscle irritability in association with characteristic myopathic units. The next step in the diagnosis is the performance of a muscle biopsy. A muscle biopsy is necessary to differentiate between polymyositis and other inflammatory myopathies and to also rule out any other muscle condition that could be mimicking polymyositis. When the diagnosis of polymyositis is confirmed, treatment can be initiated. |
|
|
|
| |
More information on polymyositis
What is polymyositis? - Polymyositis is a systemic connective tissue disorder characterized by inflammatory and degenerative changes in the muscles.
What causes polymyositis? - The cause of polymyositis is unknown. An autoimmune reaction or a viral infection of the skeletal muscle may cause polymyositis.
What're symptoms of polymyositis? - Symptoms of polymyositis are symmetrical muscle weakness, difficulty in swallowing, fever, fatigue, and weight loss.
How is polymyositis diagnosed? - The first step in the diagnosis of polymyositis is obtaining a history and physical examination compatible with the picture usually seen in this entity.
What's the treatment for polymyositis? - Polymyositis disease is treated with corticosteroid medications. Prednisone therapy usually leads to improvement within two or three months. |
|
|
|
