A Rare case of polymyositis with unremitting pain and progressive loss of motor function / Christina Dawn M. Daguipa.

Includes appendices and bibliographical references.

Abstract: Polymyositis is an inflammatory myopathy induced by chronic inflammation in skeletal muscles may present with generalized body weakness usually associated with proximal muscle weakness and myalgia. This is a case of an elderly male presenting with generalized body weakness, limb pain, difficulty in mobilization, with progressive loss of motor function. Laboratory investigations revealed a massive elevation of creatine kinase, EMG and muscle biopsy are consistent with polymyositis. The patient was treated with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin and intensive rehabilitation therapy. He made a good recovery and was discharged on Methylprednisolone, Methotrexate and Folic Acid. In the context of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, unexplained muscle pain, numbness and weakness, unresponsive to conventional treatment in the presence of normal hemoglobin, further work up must be done to rule out autoimmune phenomena. Key factors to come up with a diagnosis are an autoimmune screening ang early discussion with a rheumatologist. To present the disease course of a 68 years old male newly diagnosed with polymyositis with concomitant uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. To discuss the diagnostic approach and management in patients with polymyositis.

Research - Department of Medicine