Myositis is defined as an inflammation of a muscle. The disease has different categories.
- Polymyositis causes muscle inflammation
- Dermatomyositis is muscle inflammation that is accompanied by a purple-red rash on the skin
The symptoms can appear in both men and women and at any age. However, women age 50 to 70 are more susceptible, as are children between 5 and 15.
Myositis Symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, and weakness of the muscle. A person may have associated flu-like symptoms such as a fever.
The cause of myositis is not completely understood but may be due to an infection (infectious myositis) or autoimmune disease (polymyositis, dermatomyositis).
Treatment of myositis involves anti-inflammatory and immunosupressive medications. Corticosteroid drugs are often an early treatment option.
Learn more about myositis, it’s different forms, and how it is treated at Myositis.
