Muscle biopsies are usually required to confirm a diagnosis of myositis. Several small pieces of muscle will be taken from your deltoid, biceps, or quadriceps muscle. The exact location will be determined by your doctors.
What to expect during the test
This is a minor operation performed in a procedure room at the Myositis Center. It is performed with a local anesthetic and you can go home later the day of the procedure. More information will be provided to you, should you need a muscle biopsy.
Preparation
More information will be provided if you need a muscle biopsy.
Risks
The risks of a muscle biopsy include bleeding, pain, and infection. More information will be provided if you need a muscle biopsy.
Results
Biopsies performed at the Johns Hopkins Myositis Center are interpreted by experienced muscle pathologists at the Johns Hopkins Neuromuscular Pathology Lab. Your doctors will receive copies of your muscle biopsy report, usually within two weeks of the procedure. They will contact you as soon as the results are available.
