Contents
What You Need to Know About Glucocorticoid-Induced Myopathy
Published: Jan 18, 2024
Glucocorticoid-induced myopathy is a muscle condition caused by certain medications. Understanding its symptoms and risk factors is essential for effective management.
Symptoms to Watch For
Glucocorticoid myopathy typically presents with gradual weakness in muscles close to the body's core, such as the thighs and shoulders. This weakness can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks like climbing stairs or lifting objects. Unlike other muscle disorders, this condition does not cause muscle pain or tenderness.
Who Is at Risk?
The condition is more likely in individuals taking high doses of glucocorticoids, especially for prolonged periods. Older adults and those with physical inactivity, cancer, or respiratory conditions are at higher risk. The type of glucocorticoid preparation used can also influence risk levels.
Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnosing glucocorticoid-induced myopathy relies on patient history and the exclusion of other causes. Muscle enzyme levels are usually normal, and electromyography can show a specific pattern of muscle activity. Improvement in muscle strength after reducing glucocorticoid dosage supports the diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
It causes gradual muscle weakness without pain.
Older adults and those on high-dose glucocorticoids.
Through patient history and ruling out other causes.
It is more common with systemic glucocorticoids.
Wrapping Up
Understanding symptoms and risk factors is crucial for managing glucocorticoid-induced myopathy.
References
- Gupta A, Gupta Y. Glucocorticoid-induced myopathy: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2013; 17:913.
- Bowyer SL, LaMothe MP, Hollister JR. Steroid myopathy: incidence and detection in a population with asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1985; 76:234.
- Afifi AK, Bergman RA, Harvey JC. Steroid myopathy. Clinical, histologic and cytologic observations. Johns Hopkins Med J 1968; 123:158.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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