Name of the Condition

• Epidemic Myalgia
• Also known as "Bornholm disease" or "Devil's grip."

Summary

• Epidemic myalgia is a viral infection that causes sudden, severe muscle pain, particularly in the chest and upper abdomen, often accompanied by fever and headaches.

Causes

• Primarily caused by Coxsackie B viruses, which are part of the enterovirus family. These viruses spread easily through respiratory droplets, contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include being in close contact with someone who is infected, living in crowded or unsanitary conditions, and having a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include sharp, stabbing chest or abdominal pain, fever, headache, muscle tenderness, and malaise.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is typically based on clinical examination and patient history. Laboratory tests, such as viral cultures or serologic assays, can confirm the presence of Coxsackie B viruses.

Treatment Options

• Treatment focuses on symptom relief, including analgesics for pain, antipyretics for fever, and rest. In most cases, the condition is self-limiting and resolves within a few days to weeks.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis is generally good, with most patients recovering fully without long-term effects. Follow-up may be necessary for severe cases to ensure complete recovery.

Complications

• Complications are rare but can include myocarditis, pericarditis, or prolonged fatigue.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Preventive measures include practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and maintaining a clean living environment.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent chest pain, high fever, or difficulty breathing, as these may indicate complications.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Enterovirus Foundation

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding with ICD code B33.0 for epidemic myalgia.
• Double-check patient records for confirmation of Coxsackie B virus involvement to avoid misclassification.