J Korean Neurol Assoc.  1997 Aug;15(4):926-930.

Two cases of polymyositis presenting with respiratory failure

• Kim HJ
• Choi SH
• Oh JE
• Lee KW

Abstract

It is said that respiratory failure as an initial manifestation is extremely rare in adult polymyositis. Respiratory failure has been reported in the terminal stage of polymyositis and usually unresponsive to steroid therapy. We experienced two cases of polymyositis presenting with respiratory failure at onset due to respiratory muscle weakness. On admission they had only short history of increasing dyspnea and mild limb weakness before respiratory failure. Diagnosis of polymyositis was established by muscle enzyme, electromyography and muscle biopsy. Oral steroid therapy was initiated with assisted ventilation which resulted in good recovery. Although respiratory failure due to preferential respiratory muscle involvement is very rare, polymyositis should be considered as one of underlying diseases causing severe respiratory failure.

MeSH Terms

Adult
Biopsy
Diagnosis
Dyspnea
Electromyography
Extremities
Humans
Polymyositis*
Respiratory Insufficiency*
Respiratory Muscles
Ventilation