# A Case of Viral Myositis

## TL;DR

A 12-year-old boy developed viral myositis after a viral illness, requiring hospital care but recovering quickly.

## Contribution

This case highlights the need for acute care management in severe viral myositis.

## Key findings

- Elevated CPK and AST levels were observed, indicating muscle damage.
- The patient's condition resolved within 24 hours with intravenous hydration.
- BACM typically has a self-limited course but can require hospitalization.

## Abstract

Benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) is a post-viral syndrome characterized by calf pain and tenderness, causing difficulty walking. We present a case of BACM secondary to an acute viral illness, where a 12-year-old boy presented with two weeks of a viral prodrome followed by bilateral calf pain and inability to ambulate. Laboratory evaluation revealed elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as well as leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. Renal function was normal, and a urinalysis was negative for blood or myoglobin. The patient was admitted for intravenous hydration and monitoring. Within 24 hours, his CPK levels returned to normal, the calf pain resolved, and he was safely discharged. Although BACM follows a self-limited course, this case highlights how severe cases may require supportive management in the acute care setting.