Diagnostic Imaging of Inflammatory Myopathies: New Concepts and a Radiological Approach.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review article is to highlight the current role of diagnostic imaging in the assessment of inflammatory myopathies.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent research demonstrates that imaging plays an important role in evaluating patients with symptoms of an inflammatory myopathy. In general, MRI is the pivotal imaging modality for assessing inflammatory myopathies, revealing precise anatomic details because of changes in the signal intensity of the muscles. Whole-body MR imaging has become increasingly important over the last several years. US is also a valuable imaging modality for scanning muscles. Together with the clinical history, familiarity with the imaging features of inflammatory myopathies is essential for formulating an accurate diagnosis.