Semin Neurol 2012; 32(05): 491-499
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1334467
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Inflammatory and Toxic Myopathy

James W. Teener
1   Department of Neurology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
15 May 2013 (online)

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Abstract

Although muscle diseases are relatively rare, several treatable myopathies must be recognized by the clinician to maximize the possibility of restoring strength in affected patients. The inflammatory myopathies, including polymyositis, dermatomyositis, inflammatory necrotizing myopathy, and myositis in association with mixed connective tissue disease, typically respond well to immunosuppressive treatment. Inclusion body myositis, a myopathy that has features of both inflammation and primary degeneration, may not be treatable at this time, but treatments are actively being sought. Muscle dysfunction caused by toxins must also be recognized because removal of the offending toxin usually results in restoration of normal muscle function. Important muscle toxins include cholesterol-lowering medications, colchicine, zidovudine, corticosteroids, emetine, and ethanol.