Viral myositis as a close mimicker of polymyositis

Abstract

Viruses can induce myositis through persistent infections, molecular mimicry, production of immune complexes, immune dysregulation, or other mechanisms. Self limited viral myositis is more common among children and has been seen to be mostly associated with influenza A and B. We report a case of 15-year-old boy who presented with proximal muscle weakness following 3 weeks after an episode of fever. Muscle necrosis was evident from the raised creatine kinase levels and myoglobinuria. The patient improved slowly over a period of weeks without any treatment except for adequate hydration.