Myositis in children

A M Reed1

  • 1Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. reed.ann18@Mayo.edu

Insights

Recent advances improve understanding and treatment of childhood idiopathic inflammatory myositis, primarily juvenile dermatomyositis and juvenile polymyositis. New insights into epidemiology, pathogenesis, and therapies offer better care with reduced toxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Idiopathic inflammatory myositis in children encompasses juvenile dermatomyositis and juvenile polymyositis.
  • Recent research has significantly expanded knowledge on these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent findings on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of childhood idiopathic inflammatory myositis.
  • To highlight advancements in understanding immune responses and genetic associations.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent publications on pediatric idiopathic inflammatory myositis.
  • Synthesis of new data on disease onset, triggers, regional variations, and genetic factors.

Main Results:

  • New information on epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical presentation.
  • Emerging data on immune response gene associations and chimerism.
  • Advances in clinical evaluation, outcome assessment, and treatment protocols.

Conclusions:

  • Significant progress has been made in understanding and managing childhood idiopathic inflammatory myositis.
  • New treatment protocols aim for more effective therapy with reduced toxicity.
  • Continued research is essential for further understanding and improved patient care.

Related Concept Videos

Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment01:20

Myasthenia Gravis: Overview and Treatment

Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular transmission disorder characterized by weakness and increased fatigability of skeletal muscles. It is an autoimmune disease affecting approximately one in 2000 people, where antibodies against the α1 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are produced.
These antibodies interfere with the function of the nicotinic receptors in three ways: by binding to the receptor and disrupting acetylcholine binding; by causing cross-linking of receptors which leads...
Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnostic Tests01:15

Myasthenia Gravis: Diagnostic Tests

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune condition affecting neuromuscular transmission, causing generalized weakness in skeletal muscles. Initial diagnoses rely on patients' signs, symptoms, and medical history. The challenge lies in distinguishing myasthenia from other muscular dystrophies. An important diagnostic feature is the significant improvement of symptoms after administering anticholinesterase inhibitors.
The edrophonium test is a diagnostic tool for myasthenia gravis. It involves...
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle01:28

Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle

The clinical conditions affecting the skeletal muscle tissue are broadly categorized as musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders.
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Myocarditis I: Introduction01:21

Myocarditis I: Introduction

Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart.EtiologyMyocarditis has a diverse etiology, including a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes:Infectious CausesViral: Common viruses include Coxsackie A and B, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, enteroviruses, and influenza A.Bacterial: Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma species.Rickettsial: Infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can result in...
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:27

Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. The symptoms vary widely, encompassing asymptomatic presentations to severe, acute manifestations.Clinical PresentationAsymptomatic cases: In some instances, myocarditis may be asymptomatic, with the infection resolving without intervention. These cases often go undetected unless discovered incidentally through diagnostic imaging or tests conducted for other reasons.General Early Symptoms: Early symptoms of myocarditis are non-specific and can...
Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology01:22

Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology

The disease process of myasthenia gravis begins at the neuromuscular junction, where antibodies attack key proteins needed for muscle activation. This immune reaction weakens signal transmission, leading to the characteristic muscle fatigue and weakness that define the condition.Immune-Mediated DamageIn most individuals, antibodies target acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) on the postsynaptic membrane of muscle cells. By blocking acetylcholine binding, these antibodies prevent the nerve signal...