myopátiá

Myopathy refers to a disease of the muscles. It is characterized by weakness in the voluntary muscles, which are those that a person can control consciously. This weakness can affect various muscle groups and manifest in different ways, depending on the specific type of myopathy.

There are many different types of myopathies, broadly categorized into inherited and acquired forms. Inherited myopathies are caused by genetic mutations that are present from birth, although symptoms may not appear until later in life. Examples include muscular dystrophies like Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy, and myotonic dystrophy. Acquired myopathies develop later in life due to external factors. These can include inflammatory conditions (inflammatory myopathies such as polymyositis and dermatomyositis), endocrine disorders (like thyroid disease), certain medications (drug-induced myopathies), and infections.

Symptoms of myopathy can vary significantly. Common signs include progressive muscle weakness, muscle aches, cramps, and difficulty with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lifting objects. In some cases, muscle atrophy (wasting) may occur. The diagnosis of myopathy typically involves a physical examination, blood tests to check for muscle enzymes, electromyography (EMG) to assess muscle electrical activity, and muscle biopsy to examine muscle tissue.

Treatment for myopathy depends on the underlying cause. For some inflammatory myopathies, immunosuppressant medications may be used. For inherited forms, treatment often focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining function through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices. Research into genetic therapies is ongoing for many inherited myopathies.