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abnormal emg and thoughts about genetic testing?
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: 5 hours ago | Replies (21)Comment receiving replies
@bprather
I would hold off on genetic testing at this point. Have they done extensive bloodwork for neuropathy and checked if you are dehydrated, electrolytes balance, infection, inflammation, etc.?
Here is what AI said about your EMG result. There is no mention about jumping to genetic testing.
GPT-4o mini
Increased insertional activity on an electromyography (EMG) test typically suggests enhanced muscle excitability, which can indicate several underlying conditions.
Potential Causes of Increased Insertional Activity
Neuromuscular Disorders
Myopathy: This can occur due to inflammatory conditions like polymyositis or due to metabolic myopathies.
Neuropathies: Peripheral neuropathies may show increased activity at the site of entry.
Muscle Injury or Strain
Acute Muscle Strain: Recent injuries can lead to heightened insertional activities.
Other Conditions
Electrolyte Imbalances: Abnormal levels of potassium or calcium can affect muscle excitability.
Infection or Inflammation: Conditions like myositis or muscle infections may also result in increased activity.
Diagnostic Considerations
Further evaluation, including clinical history, other diagnostic imaging, laboratory tests, and perhaps a biopsy, may be necessary to pinpoint the exact cause. It’s important to discuss these EMG findings with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
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@bprather
Have you had more autoimmune testing beyond the MI-2 testing/result? Are you working with a rheumatologist?
Here is what MI-2 is described as in AI:
A positive Mi-2 result, typically referring to the presence of Mi-2 autoantibodies, is often associated with autoimmune conditions, particularly dermatomyositis and sometimes polymyositis.
Understanding Mi-2 Autoantibodies
Significance of Mi-2
Dermatomyositis: The presence of Mi-2 antibodies is considered a marker for this condition, which involves skin changes alongside muscle inflammation. Patients often present with characteristic rashes and muscle weakness.
Clinical Implications: Mi-2 antibodies are usually associated with a more favorable prognosis compared to other autoantibodies like Jo-1.
Symptoms of Dermatomyositis
Skin Rash: Typical rashes include heliotrope rash (purple rash on the eyelids) and Gottron's papules (red or purple bumps on the knuckles).
Muscle Weakness: Proximal muscle weakness is common, affecting shoulders, hips, and neck.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosis usually involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests for autoantibodies, EMG studies, and sometimes muscle biopsy. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressive medications such as corticosteroids or other immunomodulators.