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Acute fulminant myoglobinuric polymyositis with picornavirus-like crystals
Abstract:
Myoglobinuria was found in an 11 month old girl suffering from fever, dyspnoea, and muscle hypotonia. Muscle biopsy showed focal degenerative necrosis of the muscle fibres. Electronmicroscopically, picornavirus-like crystals were demonstrated in the muscle fibres. These and other findings strongly suggest that she suffered from acute myositis with myoglobinuria probably caused by Coxsackie B6 virus infection. The causal relationship of viral infection (Coxsackie, influenza, or myxo-viruses) and acute or chronic polymyositis with or without myoglobinuria is discussed.
Insights
An 11-month-old girl experienced fever, dyspnea, and hypotonia, leading to the discovery of myoglobinuria. Picornavirus-like crystals in muscle fibers suggest Coxsackie B6 virus caused acute myositis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Viral infections can manifest with diverse neurological and muscular symptoms.
- Myositis, inflammation of muscles, can lead to significant morbidity in children.
- Myoglobinuria, the presence of myoglobin in urine, indicates muscle damage.
Observation:
- An infant presented with fever, dyspnea, and muscle hypotonia.
- Muscle biopsy revealed focal degenerative necrosis of muscle fibers.
- Electron microscopy identified picornavirus-like crystals within muscle fibers.
Findings:
- The clinical presentation and biopsy findings strongly suggest acute myositis.
- The presence of picornavirus-like crystals points to a viral etiology, likely Coxsackie B6 virus.
- Myoglobinuria was a key indicator of the muscle damage.
Implications:
- This case highlights Coxsackie B6 virus as a potential cause of acute myositis and myoglobinuria in infants.
- Understanding the link between viral infections and myositis is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- Further research into viral polymyositis is warranted to explore acute and chronic forms.