Myositis is a rare autoimmune condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the muscles, leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and difficulty with everyday movements. In some forms, it can also affect the skin, lungs, and other organs.

Breathing issues

Difficulty with daily activities (climbing stairs, lifting objects, rising from a chair)

Fatigue

Fever

Joint pain or swelling

Muscle weakness, pain, and tenderness

Skin rashes (purple or red rash on the eyelids, face, knuckles, elbows, and knees)

Trouble swallowing (dysphagia)

Myositis includes several rare autoimmune disorders that cause chronic muscle inflammation and weakness. The most common types include:

  • Polymyositis (PM) – Polymyositis typically affects adults and causes progressive muscle weakness, especially in the shoulders, hips, and thighs. It often impacts both sides of the body equally and may make it difficult to climb stairs, lift objects, or rise from a seated position.
  • Dermatomyositis (DM) – In addition to muscle weakness, dermatomyositis presents with distinctive skin rashes, such as a violet or reddish rash on the eyelids, knuckles, or chest. It can affect both children and adults.
  • Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) – This form tends to develop more slowly and usually affects older adults. It causes weakness in both proximal and distal muscles, often impacting the thighs and forearms, and may lead to trouble gripping objects or walking.
  • Juvenile Myositis (JM) – A rare form of myositis affecting children, juvenile myositis includes both polymyositis and dermatomyositis subtypes. It may cause muscle weakness, skin rashes, and fatigue in young patients

Learn more about how people who are experiencing signs and symptoms of myositis can be diagnosed. There is no single test that confirms myositis. Doctors typically begin by reviewing medical history and performing a physical exam focused on muscle strength and inflammation.

  • Blood Tests: These tests, including creatine kinase (CK) levels are used to detect muscle damage and antinuclear antibody (ANA) tests to check for autoimmune activity.
  • Electromyography (EMG): Assess electrical activity in muscles.
  • MRI Scans: Detect areas of muscle inflammation.
  • Muscle Biopsy: A small sample of muscle tissue is examined for signs of inflammation or degeneration.
  • Skin Biopsy: May be necessary when dermatomyositis is suspected and visible rashes are observed.

While there is no cure for myositis, several treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve muscle strength and function. Treatment plans are often tailored to each person’s specific type and severity of myositis. Common treatment options include:

  • Corticosteroids: Often the first line of treatment, steroids like prednisone help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
  • Immunosuppressive Medications: Drugs such as methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil may be used to control the overactive immune response and reduce reliance on steroids.
  • Biologic Therapies: For certain patients, medications like rituximab may be used, especially in cases that don’t respond to standard treatments.
  • Physical Therapy: A customized exercise program can help maintain or improve muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility.
  • Speech or Swallowing Therapy: If myositis affects the muscles used in speaking or swallowing, therapy with a specialist may be recommended.
  • Skin Care Treatments: In dermatomyositis, topical creams or medications may help treat rashes.
  • Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): IVIG therapy may help modulate the immune system in patients who don't respond to other treatments.
  • Plasmapheresis (plasma exchange): In rare, severe cases, this procedure may be used to remove harmful antibodies from the blood.

Be the first to read our latest insights!

Thank you for your submission!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
By clicking submit, you consent to PatientWing contacting you in accordance with their Privacy Policy. You will be able to unsubscribe from PatientWing communications at any time.

Ongoing Research

Myositis is a disease that requires more effective treatment options. To find these new treatments, further research is necessary.

Current Research Studies

Discover our featured study below for myositis. If this study is not the right fit for you, there are over 100 myositis research studies that are actively recruiting participants. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find myositis research studies near you.

Featured Study

Artiva’s AlloNK Study for Myositis

Artiva's AlloNK® Study for myositis aims to reduce inflammation and symptoms of Polymyositis (PM),Dermatomyositis (DM), or Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM).

Learn More

Resources

Find an online community of fellow patients, caregivers, and advocates below as
as well as some other general resources!

Myositis Warrior
A group for patients, caregivers, and supporters who are passionate about raising awareness, educating others, and actively advocating for the myositis community.
Learn More
r/Myositis
A subreddit that offers support and information related to inflammatory myopathies, including polymyositis, dermatomyositis, inclusion body myositis, necrotizing autoimmune myopathy and antisynthetase syndrome.
Learn More
Myositis Support Community
A group for people affected by all forms of myositis, offering a supportive space to connect, share experiences, and access country-specific resources.
Learn More
The Myositis Association
An international nonprofit, dedicated to education, research, advocacy, and support for myositis.
Learn More
Myositis Support and Understanding Association (MSU)
A US-based, all-volunteer nonprofit organization providing patient-centered support including educational webinars, financial assistance, online support groups, and grassroots advocacy training for patients and caregivers.
Learn More
HSS Myositis Support and Education Program
Hosted by the Hospital for Special Surgery, this professional-led group offers monthly meetings with expert speakers followed by open discussion to support coping and education.
Learn More
Myositis Family Podcast
This podcast features authentic stories from patients and caregivers, highlighting the journey through diagnosis, life with myositis, and recovery—told by a diverse range of voices including adults, children, and families.
Learn More
Mental Health and Counseling Resources
Explore mental health resources tailored for those living with myositis, including tips for coping, support services, and tools to manage emotional well-being for patients and caregivers alike.
Learn More
Myositis Support and Understanding – Disability Resources
This resource provides guidelines and tools for using mobility aids (cane, wheelchair), travel, oxygen, feeding assistance, and navigating daily challenges.
Learn More
Recent Myositis Trials Produce Both ‘Successes and Failures’
Read this article to explore recent myositis clinical trials—some treatments show encouraging results, while others did not meet expectations.
Learn More
Myositis Research Awards Bring Hope to Those with Rare Diseases
The Myositis Association’s 2024 Research Awards fund new studies to advance treatments and bring hope to people living with rare forms of myositis.
Learn More

Related Articles

No items found.
No items found.