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Benign acute childhood myositis
Sarala Rajajee1, S Ezhilarasi, K Rajarajan
1Kanchi Kamakoti CHILDS Trust Hospital, Chennai, India. saralarajajee@yahoo.com
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|June 24, 2005
Summary
Benign acute childhood myositis often follows viral infections, with Dengue virus identified in 50% of cases. Supportive care leads to excellent outcomes in children experiencing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) is a transient condition affecting children.
- It is often associated with preceding viral infections, leading to symptoms like leg pain and difficulty walking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate the clinical and laboratory characteristics of benign acute childhood myositis.
- To identify potential viral triggers, specifically Dengue virus.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 40 children diagnosed with BACM between October 2001 and February 2002 was studied.
- Clinical data, preceding symptoms, laboratory results (including CPK, CRP, and serology), and outcomes were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Dengue virus serology was positive in 50% of cases (20 children), with 25% primary and 30% secondary infections.
- Elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels were observed in 72.5% of patients.
- Associated findings included hepatitis in 70% and thrombocytopenia in 40%.
Conclusions:
- Benign acute childhood myositis is frequently linked to viral infections, with Dengue virus being a significant factor in this cohort.
- Key differentiating features include calf and thigh muscle tenderness, normal muscle power and reflexes, and elevated CPK levels.
- Supportive therapy resulted in excellent outcomes for affected children.