Myositis: Overview
Myositis includes a variety of muscular diseases that cause degeneration of muscle tissue. As myositis progresses, muscle fibers throughout the body are destroyed, resulting in decreasing strength, and making even the simplest physical activities difficult.
Although the disorder generally only affects muscles, myositis can also harm the heart (which is actually a muscle), lungs, skin and intestines. Sometimes, muscle deterioration may occur only in one part of the body such as an arm or leg. If you experience muscle tenderness or weakness, ask your doctor about undergoing a blood test known as creatine kinase (CK) or creatine phosphokinase (CPK). These tests can help determine whether you are suffering from myositis.
The family of inflammatory myopathies includes dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and inclusion body myositis.
The cause of myositis is unclear, however scientists categorize myositis as an autoimmune disease. Severe cases of myositis may lead to rhabdomyolysis, a potentially deadly kidney disorder.
Recently, the cholesterol lowering drug Baycol (Lipobay / cerivastatin) was removed from the market after it was discovered that the medication may cause myositis, eventually leading to rhabdomyolysis. Baycol is a member of the statin family of drugs, all of which may increase a patient's risk of developing myositis. If you have taken Baycol or any other cholesterol lowering drugs, especially in combination with Gemfibrozil (lopid), it may be important to see a healthcare professional.
In addition, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which you must commence suit.
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-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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