Description

Myositis refers to a group of rare conditions characterized by chronic muscle inflammation and weakness. It can result from autoimmune disease, infection, medication side effects, or muscle injury. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can improve symptoms, prevent complications, and guide disease management.

Common Symptoms of Myositis:

  • Muscle weakness, especially in the hips, shoulders, and neck
  • Fatigue after physical activity or prolonged standing
  • Muscle pain or tenderness that persists
  • Difficulty climbing stairs, lifting objects, or standing from a seated position
  • Swallowing or breathing difficulties
  • Skin rashes (especially in dermatomyositis)

Types of Myositis:

  • Polymyositis: Progressive muscle weakness near the trunk, without skin involvement
  • Dermatomyositis: Similar muscle symptoms, with distinctive skin rash
  • Overlap Myositis: Occurs alongside other autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, scleroderma)

This Blood Panel Includes the Following Biomarkers:

Aldolase

  • Purpose: Measures the enzyme involved in muscle energy metabolism.
  • Why it matters: Elevated aldolase levels indicate muscle cell damage. It is particularly useful in detecting inflammatory myopathies, including dermatomyositis and polymyositis.

Creatine Kinase (CPK or CK)

  • Purpose: Measures a key enzyme released when muscle tissue is injured.
  • Why it matters: One of the most sensitive biomarkers for muscle inflammation and damage. High CK levels support the diagnosis of myositis and help monitor disease progression or response to therapy.

Test Preparation:

  • Fasting: Not required
  • Sample Type: Blood (venipuncture)

Recommended For Individuals With:

  • Unexplained muscle weakness or fatigue
  • Persistent muscle pain not linked to exercise or injury
  • Suspected inflammatory muscle disease
  • Known or suspected autoimmune conditions
  • Evaluation before or during treatment with statins or other muscle-affecting drugs

Why This Panel Matters:

Because myositis is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, this blood panel plays a key role in identifying biochemical markers of muscle inflammation. It helps clinicians distinguish myositis from other neuromuscular disorders and supports early, targeted intervention.