How is polymyositis diagnosed?
You may need one or more of the following tests: • Biopsy: Your caregiver will remove a tissue from your muscle, and send it to the lab for tests. Before the tissue is removed, your skin will be cleaned, and medicine may be used to numb the area. After the biopsy, you may need stitches to close the wound. A bandage may cover the biopsy area. • Blood tests: Creatine kinase is a substance made by injured muscles. The creatine kinase test checks for the presence of creatine kinase in your blood. • Electromyography (EMG): Electromyography is a test that measures the electrical activity of your muscles. Your muscles are tested at rest and while you are using them. An EMG test may also check the nerves that control your muscles. • Magnetic resonance imaging: This test is also called MRI. An MRI allows caregivers to see inside your body. During the MRI, pictures are taken of your muscles. Caregivers use these pictures to look for muscle changes or injuries. How is polymyositis treated? You ma
