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Polymyositis Diagnosis
Polymyositis Diagnosis
It takes an experienced doctor to tell the difference between polymyositis and other muscle conditions, like dermatomyositis or inclusion body myositis. At Stanford's Neuromuscular Program, our doctors have decades of experience diagnosing even the rarest diseases of the muscles and nerves. This extensive experience helps them rule out other disorders more quickly than another doctor might.
Diagnosing Polymyositis: What to Expect
The process for diagnosing polymyositis may include:
- Complete medical history and physical examination, including history of systemic diseases and careful examination to discern the pattern of muscle involvement.
- Electrodiagnostic tests (EMG/NCS): Our neuromuscular neurologists assess muscle and nerve function using a machine that measures electrical signals in individual muscles and nerves. Learn more about electromyography.
- Laboratory tests: Your blood is checked for muscle enzymes, antibodies are associated with autoimmune diseases, and other possible causes of muscle weakness.
- Imaging studies: You may undergo non-invasive testing like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm muscle inflammation.
- Muscle biopsy: Examination of a small sample of muscle tissue to look for abnormalities that may establish a diagnosis
Learn more about polymyositis treatment at Stanford.