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This report aims to describe a specific case of muscle inflammation caused by a viral infection.

January 10, 2026Cureus0 citationsOpen Access

A Case of Viral Myositis

MGMindy GohUniversity of California, Los Angeles CSCharmi ShahUniversity of California, Los Angeles

Key Points

This report aims to describe a specific case of muscle inflammation caused by a viral infection.
Detailed clinical examination of the patient

Structured PICO

Population

12-year-old boy with benign acute childhood myositis (BACM) following co-infection with influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), presenting with two weeks of viral prodrome and acute bilateral calf pain.

Intervention

Intravenous fluid therapy and a five-day course of oseltamivir

Outcome

Resolution of calf pain, ability to ambulate, and normalization of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels

Severe cases of benign acute childhood myositis may require hospitalization for aggressive intravenous hydration, leading to rapid clinical and biochemical recovery.

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.

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