Abstract | INTRODUCTION:
Inflammatory myopathy is a treatable cause of worsening in the spectrum of neurological conditions that may develop during the course of HTLV-1 infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: To investigate the cause of subacute worsening in the strength of a 46-y-old black male with HTLV-1 associated myelopathy we performed electrodiagnostic examination and a muscle biopsy which was studied with histochemistry, immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy. Serial measurements of isometric muscle strength were performed during the course of corticosteroid treatment. RESULTS: The muscle biopsy showed evidence of denervation atrophy and prominent inflammatory changes with autoaggressive features. Lymphocyte typing showed a predominance of CD8+ T cells. The patient had sustained, marked improvement in strength, especially of the upper extremities, with oral, high single-dose, alternate-day prednisone therapy. CONCLUSION: A muscle biopsy should be considered in all patients with HTLV-1 associated weakness, especially when electromyography indicates possible coexisting primary muscle involvement and/or serum creatine kinase levels are elevated. HTLV-1-associated polymyositis can be successfully treated with corticosteroids.
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Authors | A J Waclawik, R Fadic, B P Lotz, B R Beinlich, P J Lewandoski, M Sanjak, B R Brooks |
Journal | Acta neurologica Scandinavica
(Acta Neurol Scand)
Vol. 94
Issue 2
Pg. 115-9
(Aug 1996)
ISSN: 0001-6314 [Print] Denmark |
PMID | 8891056
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Chemical References |
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents
- CD4 Antigens
- CD8 Antigens
- Creatine Kinase
- Prednisone
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Topics |
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Biopsy
- CD4 Antigens
(immunology)
- CD8 Antigens
(immunology)
- Creatine Kinase
(blood)
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique
- HTLV-I Infections
(complications)
- Humans
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Muscle, Skeletal
(chemistry)
- Paraparesis, Tropical Spastic
(complications, drug therapy)
- Polymyositis
(complications, drug therapy)
- Prednisone
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
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