Myositis
Myositis is a rare autoimmune connective tissue disease which
causes inflammation of the muscles ('myo' = muscles, 'itis' =
inflammation). It particularly affects the large muscles around the
shoulders, hips and thighs. Symptoms include muscle weakness,
extreme tiredness (fatigue), weight loss and night sweats. Patients
may also feel generally unwell and the muscles themselves can be
sore to touch. Occasionally myositis can affect your breathing.
Dermatomyositis is a type of myositis which is also associated
with a skin rash. This rash tends to occur on the upper eyelids,
face, neck and backs of hands.
The diagnosis of myositis is based on your symptoms, a physical
examination, and blood tests to look for specific antibodies which
are associated with myositis. You may be referred for a magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your muscles and an
electromyography test which looks at electrical activity in the
muscles. A sample of the affected muscle (a muscle biopsy) may also
be taken to confirm the diagnosis.
The symptoms of myositis often respond quickly and very well to
steroids. Steroids suppress the immune system and reduce
inflammation in the muscles. However long term use of steroids is
associated with a number of risks and side effects. In the long
term, other medications may be needed to suppress the immune system
and keep the myositis under control.
Once your myositis is controlled, it is very important to
exercise regularly to improve your muscle strength, stamina and
your overall health. Our physiotherapists can tailor an exercise
programme to help you regain your muscle strength over time.
Useful resources for patients:
Useful resources for health professionals:
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003643.pub4/full
