Myopátia

Myopátia is a general term for diseases of the muscle. These conditions affect the muscle fibers themselves, leading to impaired muscle function. Myopatias can manifest in various ways, including weakness, stiffness, cramps, and pain. The severity and progression of symptoms can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause.

There are many different types of myopátias, broadly categorized into acquired and inherited forms. Acquired myopatias can arise from external factors such as certain medications (e.g., statins), infections, or autoimmune disorders. Inherited myopatias are caused by genetic mutations that affect muscle protein production or function. These can include muscular dystrophies, metabolic myopatias, and congenital myopatias.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests (to check for muscle enzymes like creatine kinase), electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle electrical activity, and muscle biopsy to examine muscle tissue under a microscope. Genetic testing is often crucial for identifying inherited forms.

Treatment strategies depend on the specific type of myopátiá. For acquired myopatias, addressing the underlying cause, such as discontinuing a causative medication or treating an autoimmune condition, may lead to improvement. For inherited myopatias, treatment is often focused on managing symptoms, slowing progression, and improving quality of life through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes medication. Research into novel therapies, including gene therapy, is ongoing for many of these conditions.