Virus-like Particles in Myositis Accompanying Herpes Zoster

CHOU1 detected myxovirus-like particles by electron-microscopy of muscle biopsies from a patient with chronic polymyositis. Our report concerns two cases of myositis which occurred during herpes zoster; one is of additional interest because of a subacute relapsing course. In both, biopsy revealed muscle degeneration in the presence of virus-like particles. REPORT OF CASES CASE 1.—The early course in this case is described in a preliminary report2 and only summarized here. A 50-year-old housewife experienced a burning sensation on the left sole in August 1967. Calf muscle pain appeared. At the neurology clinic on Sept 22, examination disclosed absence of the muscle stretch reflex at the ankle. Characteristic blisters appeared distally on the sole, and herpes zoster of L-5 and S-1 was diagnosed.She gave a history of having previously suffered from similar eruptions in other areas on four occasions over 38 years.2 Arthritic symptoms had been present