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Post-COVID-19 Polymyositis: A Case Report

Stefan Anthony1, Davong D Phrathep1, Ali El-Husari1

  • 1Family Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, USA.

Cureus
|December 7, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Polymyositis, a rare condition causing symmetrical muscle weakness, can develop after Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Early investigation and immunosuppressant treatment are crucial for managing post-COVID-19 polymyositis symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Rheumatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Polymyositis is an idiopathic inflammatory myopathy characterized by symmetrical proximal muscle weakness.
  • Post-Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) polymyositis is a rare but potential complication following viral infection.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment of polymyositis are essential for patient outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 58-year-old male experienced weakness, myalgias, and arthralgias six months post-COVID-19 recovery.
  • Initial investigations ruled out other autoimmune diseases and myopathies.
  • The patient presented with symptoms consistent with polymyositis.

Findings:

  • The patient exhibited symptoms suggestive of polymyositis following COVID-19.
  • Treatment with prednisone resulted in moderate symptom improvement.
  • Diagnosis was based on clinical presentation and response to therapy, despite refusal of biopsy/EMG.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering polymyositis in patients with persistent symptoms after COVID-19.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management, including immunosuppressive therapy, can improve quality of life.
  • Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology and long-term effects of post-COVID-19 polymyositis.
Keywords:
arthralgiacovid-19idiopathic inflammatory myopathymyalgiapolymyositis

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