Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme found in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. Muscle cells make this enzyme in order to function, when muscle cells are injured or unhealthy, these enzymes leak out of muscle cells and into the blood stream. Myositis damages muscle tissue, so in many cases raised CPK levels aid in the diagnosis of myositis.
CPK levels above 200 units per liter can indicate muscle disease. In some patients however, CPK levels do not rise, especially after prednisone use, therefore CPK levels are not always indicative of active disease.
Through our support groups we have learned some patients will never experience a rise in their CPK level yet have active Myositis. This becomes a good tool once a baseline is established for doctors to monitor from that point.
Tags: myositis testing
Greetings, I was diagnosed with IBM Nov 2016. at 61 years old I am currently working as an Arborist. My job requires me to work in the field examining trees, measuring and doing some mild pruning that’s within reach from the ground. As time progresses my stability and balance have diminished tremendously. I have fallen over a dozen times injuring my tail bone, fracturing my foot and elbow during separate falls. I can only walk with a cane or assistance from my wife. With my fear of falling I no longer have the confidence to work. My inability to walk on unlevel ground, around roadways and curbs, or up slight inclines is dangerous to me. At work I have already fallen on five separate occasions. Three of which were in front of other employees. As time passes, my condition continues to make me weaker. No longer do I feel I can continue my work for fear of permanent injury or death. Has anyone had difficultly receiving disability benefits having IBM? Is there anything that is important to know to make this application for disability successful?