polmyositis

Question 1

What is POLMYOSITIS-PM

Answer 1

Diffuse, idiopathic, inflammatory myopathy of striated muscle
Bilateral weakness
Most severe in proximal or limb girdle muscles
Dermatomyositis-If accompanied by distinctive skin changes

Question 2

POLMYOSITIS ETIOLOGY

Answer 2

Exact cause unknown
Autoimmune origin???
Environmental factors-viral, bacterial infections
Drugs, supplements, vaccines , medical implants, occupational exposures

Question 3

POLYMYOCITIS CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS

Answer 3

Weight loss
Increased fatigue
Gradually developing weakness of muscles (shoulders, legs, arms and pelvic girdle)
Inability to move against resistance or even gravity
Dysphagia, Dysphonia
Contractures and muscle dystrophy with advancers disease

Question 4

PM-Diagnostic Studies

Answer 4

Biopsy- Gold standard
MRI- identify areas of inflammation and guide biopsy site
Lab results- increased muscle enzymes, CK, myoglobin, ESR, CRP

Question 5

PM-Interprofessional Management

Answer 5

Oral corticosteroids
If no response to corticosteroids – immunosuppressive drugs (e.g. methotrexate, tacrolimus)
IV immunoglobulin
Physical therapy-ROM exercises
Aspiration precautions