Health Topics for Bones, Joints and Muscles

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Department of Orthopaedics

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Rheumatology Clinic

Pediatrics Rheumatology

UI Spine Center

Polymyositis

Polymyositis is a chronic disease. The body's immune system attacks its own healthy muscles. As the disease gets worse, the muscles get weak. The disease is seen more often in women than in men. It is rare for anyone under the age of 20 to have polymyositis. The cause is not known.

Polymyositis starts very slowly usually over a period of 3 to 6 months. It may start very suddenly on rare occasions. The muscles start getting weak in the shoulder or hip area. There is often morning stiffness. Other symptoms may include a feeling of being tired, not feeling hungry, losing weight, and a fever. About half the people with this disease have muscle pain or tenderness. Sometimes the eyes may be swollen.

This disease can affect the heart. If it does, there may be palpitations or the person may pass out. After awhile, the weak muscles may make it hard to get out of a chair, climb stairs, lift things or reach over the head. Some people may have trouble swallowing.

There are several tests the healthcare provider will do to find out what the problem is, including blood and muscle tissue tests. Very often an electromyography or EMG will be done. This test checks to see how strong the muscle is and how the muscle works.

Treatment may vary. But it usually starts with a drug called prednisone. There are other drugs that also work on the immune system. Sometimes immunoglobulin is used. Physical therapy will keep the muscles from getting smaller.

Getting enough rest is important to keep this disease under control. It may even be necessary to take a break or nap during day. Whirlpool baths, heat and gentle massage may help.

Most people with this disease have results with the treatment with about one-third returning to normal strength. For a few other people the disease may be worse. They may not do as well with treatment. After a while they may have trouble moving.

It is very important to work very closely with the provider in managing this disease. Often it will be necessary to see a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist is a provider that treats people with arthritis and other diseases of this type.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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