What Causes Myositis?

Myositis is a term referring to inflammation in the muscles that move the body. The condition can be caused by a number of different factors including infection, injury, or autoimmune disease. Though there are several different types of myositis, the condition tends to present with muscle weakness. Patients may also trip or fall unexpectedly, have trouble with breathing or swallowing, or experience fatigue after standing or walking. Diagnosis is done through a physical examination, lab testing, imaging, and finally a biopsy of the muscle. Myositis-related diseases have no cure, but the symptoms are treatable. Doctors typically recommend corticosteroids, medications, exercise, rest, assistive devices, and physical therapy. The exact treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause.