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[Benign acute childhood myositis: Clinical series and literature review]
Felipe Cavagnaro S M1, Alejandra Aird G1, Ingrid Harwardt R2
1Facultad de Medicina orgdiv2=, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile.
Insights
Benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) is a rare condition typically following a viral illness. This study found BACM presents with calf pain in children, resolves without complications, and can be managed outpatient.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) is a rare condition affecting children, often following viral infections like influenza.
- It is characterized by acute onset of muscle pain and weakness, primarily in the calf muscles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on a series of BACM cases observed in a pediatric unit.
- To highlight the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and management of BACM.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case series was conducted.
- Data were collected from pediatric emergency department admissions between August and November 2012.
Main Results:
- Nine children aged 4-12 years presented with calf pain and claudication post-viral illness.
- Elevated creatine kinase (CK) levels were noted (mean 4,066 IU/l).
- Influenza B and Mycoplasma pneumoniae were identified in some cases; all patients recovered with conservative management.
Conclusions:
- BACM is a benign condition with a distinct clinical presentation.
- Outpatient management with supportive care (hydration, NSAIDs) is typically sufficient.
- Avoidance of invasive procedures and unnecessary hospital admissions is recommended.
Abstract:
Benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) is a rare clinical condition that mainly affects pre-school and school age-children. It is usually preceded by a viral illness, particularly influenza virus infection.
Objective:
To describe a cluster of BACM cases that were seen in a paediatric unit.
Patients And Methods:
A retrospective series of cases that presented with a clinical picture suggestive of BACM between August and November 2012 in the paediatric emergency department of a private clinic.
Results:
Nine children, between 4 and 12 years, presented with a history of a recent febrile upper viral respiratory infection, followed by intense calf pain and claudication. They all recovered without complications. Laboratory results showed a marked increase in CK, with a mean of 4,066 IU/l. Three of the cases had influenza B infection and one Mycoplasma pneumonia infection. They were managed conservatively with hydration and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Conclusions:
BACM is a benign entity with a characteristic clinical presentation that can be managed most of the time in the ambulatory setting, avoiding invasive studies and unnecessary hospital admission.
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