Condition
Polymyositis
Orthopaedics
Overview
Diseases characterized by inflammation involving multiple muscles. This may occur as an acute or chronic condition associated with medication toxicity (DRUG TOXICITY); CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASES; infections; malignant NEOPLASMS; and other disorders. The term polymyositis is frequently used to refer to a specific clinical entity characterized by subacute or slowly progressing symmetrical weakness primarily affecting the proximal limb and trunk muscles. The illness may occur at any age, but is most frequent in the fourth to sixth decade of life. Weakness of pharyngeal and laryngeal muscles, interstitial lung disease, and inflammation of the myocardium may also occur. Muscle biopsy reveals widespread destruction of segments of muscle fibers and an inflammatory cellular response. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, pp1404-9)
This information is general and should not be treated as medical advice. Always speak directly with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about treatment, diagnosis, procedures, medicines or care.
Quick facts about Polymyositis
- Topic type
- Condition
- Category
- Orthopaedics
- MeSH classification
- C05.651.594.819|C10.668.491.562.575
Preparing for an appointment about Polymyositis
If you are speaking with a healthcare professional about Polymyositis, it can help to prepare a few details in advance.
- Write down your symptoms and when they started.
- Bring details of any medicines, supplements or previous treatments.
- Ask what tests or assessments may be needed.
- Ask what treatment or management options may be suitable.
- Ask when you should seek urgent medical help or follow-up care.
Finding care related to Polymyositis
EuroCareFinder helps patients explore clinics and healthcare providers across Europe. Some topics link directly to services offered by clinics, while others may be connected through related specialties, treatments or procedures.
Explore clinics across Europe
Browse the wider EuroCareFinder healthcare network using the interactive map.
Clinics related to Polymyositis
No clinics are currently linked directly to Polymyositis on EuroCareFinder.
As more clinics add detailed services, related providers may appear here.
Related topics
Explore healthcare providers
Use EuroCareFinder to browse clinics by country, specialty and available services.
Source: Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), produced by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. EuroCareFinder is not endorsed by the National Library of Medicine. MeSH version: 2026.