Preliminary observations on the role of magnetic resonance imaging for polymyositis and dermatomyositis

Abstract

The potential use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for inflammatory muscle disorders was evaluated in 13 patients with polymyositis and dermatomyositis. Abnormalities in signal intensity (p=0.0076) and fat replacement (p=0.0177) were identified and correlated significantly with clinical disease activity. In addition, MRI was useful in directing muscle biopsy of selected abnormal areas.