myopátias

Myopathies are a group of diseases of the muscles. They affect the voluntary muscles, the ones we use to move. In myopathies, the muscle fibers do not function properly. This can result in muscle weakness, stiffness, and pain. Myopathies are a broad category and can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, toxins, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

There are many different types of myopathies, each with its own set of symptoms and progression. Some common examples include muscular dystrophies, which are inherited disorders that cause progressive muscle degeneration, and inflammatory myopathies, where the immune system attacks healthy muscle tissue. Other types can be caused by metabolic disorders or problems with the electrical signals that control muscle contraction.

The symptoms of myopathies can vary greatly depending on the specific type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, particularly in the proximal muscles (those closer to the center of the body), fatigue, muscle cramps, and sometimes muscle pain. In some cases, myopathies can also affect other parts of the body, such as the heart or lungs.

Diagnosis of myopathies typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to check for muscle enzymes, nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle electrical activity, and muscle biopsy to examine the muscle tissue directly. Genetic testing may also be used for inherited forms.

Treatment for myopathies depends on the underlying cause. For some genetic myopathies, there is no cure, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices. For inflammatory myopathies, treatments may include corticosteroids or other immunosuppressant drugs. Myopathies caused by toxins or infections may resolve once the causative agent is removed or treated.