Polymyositis is a medical term that translates into muscle inflammation of multiple muscles. This disorder is actually a large group of diseases that all involve chronic muscle inflammation and pain. They affect a large spectrum of ages and can range in severity. Polymyositis can lead to debilitating muscle weakness and pain that can cause a lifelong disability.
The primary symptom of polymyositis diseases is muscle pain. Of all of the different types and subtypes of polymyositis diseases, muscle pain is typically the first symptom. Other symptoms include:
Polymyositis affects skeletal muscle the most and often affects muscles symmetrically. Skeletal muscles are the muscles that are often involved in body movement. These muscles become inflamed and painful, and over time become weaker. As your skeletal muscles become weaker, it can be difficult to continue with daily tasks such as walking and dressing yourself.
The exact cause of polymyositis is unknown, unfortunately that means the disease cannot be prevented. It is known that genetics play some role in the disease process, and current research studies are being conducted to determine if polymyositis is inherited.
While the cause is unknown, there are very well studied risk factors. These include:
If you develop muscle pain and weakness, then you need to visit your doctor as soon as possible. They will start by taking a thorough history and doing a clinical exam. Blood testing, muscle testing and imaging may be necessary for diagnosis.
Your muscles are made up of proteins and when they are damaged or inflamed, they release enzymes. The enzymes that are released, also known as CK enzymes, can be detected in blood tests. Other labs that may be completed include basic inflammatory labs, basic blood counts, and immune function tests.
You may also need a muscle biopsy and nerve conduction study to determine the true cause of your muscle weakness. A muscle biopsy is the standard test to diagnose polymyositis.
Polymyositis is thought to be an immune mediated condition. This means that your immune system is attacking your muscles, leading to inflammation, pain and muscle weakness. For this reason, most treatments are catered towards suppressing the immune system.
Immunosuppressant medications and corticosteroids are the first step in treating polymyositis. Other treatments focus on supportive care such as physical and occupational therapy to help you get stronger and regain some of your muscle function.
Polymyositis translates directly into inflammation of multiple muscles. It is a term that is often used to describe a group of immune mediated diseases that lead to muscle weakness and pain. With early diagnosis, it can be treated and symptoms can be managed.