Carbon Monoxide Poisoning-Induced Myositis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Toxicology
• Musculoskeletal Medicine

Background:

• Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a common yet potentially fatal condition.
• Neurological and systemic complications are well-documented, but muscle involvement, specifically myositis, is a rare sequela.
• This case highlights an unusual presentation of CO poisoning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of myositis following carbon monoxide poisoning.
• To emphasize the diagnostic utility of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in identifying CO-induced myositis.
• To underscore the importance of early recognition and treatment of CO poisoning complications.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a 38-year-old male with CO poisoning.
• Diagnostic workup included laboratory tests, MRI, electromyography, and X-ray.
• Exclusion of other potential causes of myositis was performed.
• Treatment involved intensive care, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest.

Main Results:

• The patient developed persistent thigh myalgia and weakness one month post-CO exposure.
• MRI revealed active myositis in the vastus lateralis muscle.
• Other diagnostic tests were unremarkable, and alternative myositis causes were excluded.
• Treatment led to symptom alleviation and lesion regression on follow-up MRI.

Conclusions:

• Myositis is a rare but recognized complication of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• MRI is an invaluable non-invasive tool for diagnosing CO-induced myositis and monitoring treatment response.
• Prompt recognition and management, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, are critical for improving outcomes in CO poisoning patients.