Viral Myositis in a Pediatric Patient Following Influenza Infection: A Case Report

Viral myositis is an uncommon sequela associated with influenza virus infection, more common in children. We report a case of a three-year-old girl who developed viral myositis after suffering from influenza A infection. The patient was found to have leg pain associated with difficulty in walking. The diagnosis was confirmed by physical examination and elevated creatine kinase (CK) level. Supportive measures, including rehydration and mitigation of fever, were sufficient. Antiviral therapy was not required. This case also underscores the importance of early diagnosis and supportive medical care in managing children with viral myositis. Persistently elevated levels of CK are also useful in diagnosis as they provide evidence of muscle damage sustained during virus infection. The immediate concern would be the reassurance of caregivers regarding cases that will almost always be resolved with supportive care instead of worsening progressively. Prevention of unnecessary courses of management will decrease the patient's anxiety and the parents' fears.