A Case of Viral Myositis

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.