Identical Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle Involvement in a Case of Fatal Polymyositis

Abstract

THE variability in clinical and pathological manifestations of polymyositis coupled with ignorance concerning its etiology has made classification difficult.¹ The occurrence of myocardial involvement very similar to the skeletal muscle involvement in the case reported here not only shows another facet of a multifaceted syndrome but may underline the significance of cardiac failure as the cause of death in severe cases. Report of a Case A 22-year-old white airline stewardess was well until mid-October 1963, when she became aware of weakness in her arms while carrying her suitcase or setting her hair. Subsequently she had difficulty walking, climbing stairs, and maintaining an erect posture. There was mild transitory muscle soreness that she felt was similar to muscle tenderness felt after heavy exercise. In late November 1963 weakness and shortness of breath became worse. She had to be careful when swallowing to avoid choking. Her weight dropped from 133