Is This Muscle Atrophy? Symptoms and Next Steps

Is this muscle atrophy?

I have a keloid on the right side of my right leg joint.
When I was younger, my family doctor injected an unknown medication in an attempt to eliminate the proliferative tissue, but it regrew, causing nearby tissue to become depressed, and there is also a phenomenon of tissue dissolution.
For example, in some areas, only the epidermis remains, while the tissue beneath the dermis seems to be absent.
What should I do? Additionally, above the ankles on both legs, on the inner side of the calves, there are symmetrical linear depressions that seem to have the epidermis and some tissue still present, but the tissue below appears to be missing.
When I press on it, I notice it feels quite different from the surrounding muscle, and it also itches a lot! Could this be a sign of muscle atrophy? How should I address this? Which specialty should I consult?

Xiao Jiang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/09/26

Dr. Jiang Siyi reply Neurology

It is recommended that you first consult a dermatologist for the issue you have raised.

Reply Date: 2003/09/26

More Info

Muscle atrophy, or the wasting away of muscle tissue, can be a concerning symptom that often raises questions about underlying health conditions. In your case, the description of a "crab-like" lump on the right side of your joint, along with the history of injections and the subsequent changes in the surrounding tissue, suggests that there may be a complex interaction of factors at play.

Firstly, it's important to understand that muscle atrophy can occur for various reasons, including disuse, nerve damage, or systemic diseases. In your situation, the history of injections aimed at treating a growth may have led to localized tissue changes, including the low-lying areas you described. The fact that you are experiencing itching in these areas could indicate inflammation or irritation, which might be a response to the previous treatment or a sign of an underlying condition.

The symmetrical line-like depressions you mentioned on the inner sides of your calves could be indicative of several things. They might represent localized atrophy, where the muscle tissue has diminished due to disuse or nerve involvement. Alternatively, they could be related to skin changes or subcutaneous tissue loss, which can occur due to various dermatological or vascular conditions. The presence of these symptoms does not necessarily mean you are experiencing muscle atrophy in the traditional sense, but they warrant further investigation.

Given your symptoms, the best course of action would be to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in musculoskeletal disorders or dermatology. A rheumatologist or an orthopedic specialist could provide insights into the joint and muscle issues, while a dermatologist could address the skin-related symptoms. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to assess the condition of the muscles and surrounding tissues more thoroughly. Additionally, a nerve conduction study or electromyography (EMG) could help evaluate the function of the nerves and muscles in the affected areas.

In the meantime, it would be beneficial to monitor your symptoms closely. Keep track of any changes in the appearance of the affected areas, as well as any new symptoms that may arise. If you notice increased weakness, pain, or changes in sensation, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

As for managing your symptoms, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity can help prevent further muscle atrophy. Engaging in gentle exercises that promote blood flow and muscle engagement, such as walking or swimming, may be beneficial. However, it is essential to avoid any activities that exacerbate your symptoms or cause discomfort.

In summary, while your symptoms may raise concerns about muscle atrophy, they could also be related to previous treatments and localized tissue changes. Consulting with a specialist will provide you with a clearer understanding of your condition and the appropriate steps to take for management and treatment. Remember, early intervention is key in addressing any potential issues effectively.

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