POLYMYOSITIS PRESENTING AS DISTAL MUSCLE WEAKNESS - A CASE REPORT

Attention is called to the occurrence, in an elderly patient, of a chronic form of polymyositis of distal distribution, in which constitutional upset and skin changes were absent. Clinical distinction in this case from muscular dystrophy of distal type was difficult. However, the presence of dysphagia suggested the diagnosis of polymyositis, but full investigation, including muscle biopsy, electromyography and serum enzyme estimations was necessary to establish the correct diagnosis. This led to a rapid and sustained remission of symptoms as a result of steroid therapy. © 1969.