A 39-year-old woman from Delhi, previously bedridden and paralyzed due to polymyositis, a rare autoimmune disorder, has made a remarkable recovery after receiving specialized treatment at a private hospital in the national capital. Initially unable to walk, eat solid food, or breathe without assistance, the woman can now stand on her own and is on the path to recovery, providing hope for others facing this seemingly irreversible disease, according to medical officials.
The patient’s ordeal began in December 2022, with progressive weakness in her legs that extended to her arms. By February 2023, the debilitating symptoms had worsened, leaving her unable to lift her arms or head, stand without support, consume solid food, or breathe adequately without assistance. This led to rapid weight loss and muscle deterioration.
Under the care of PN Renjen, a Senior Consultant Neurologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, the patient underwent extensive testing, and the conclusive diagnosis was polymyositis. Renjen explained, “The clinical picture, antibody evidence, MRI scans clearly showing muscle inflammation, electrical studies ruling out nerve issues, and muscle biopsy samples proved that autoimmune destruction of muscles was rapidly happening due to polymyositis.”
“Polymyositis is one of the most rapidly disabling autoimmune disorders. In this patient’s case, her muscles were being destroyed at an alarming rate by her immune system. Within just three months, simple acts like standing up, lifting one’s arms, swallowing solid food, or even breathing properly were impossible without help,” Renjen added.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Renjen expressed gratitude for the multidisciplinary team and advanced diagnostic facilities at the hospital that enabled a definitive diagnosis through specialized tests.