Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory disease that results in skin changes and muscle weakness.
The exact cause is not known. It may be due to a problem with the immune system that causes it to attack healthy tissue. Genes and the environment may also play a role.
This problem is more common in women. It often starts in people who are 30 to 50 years old.
Other things that may raise the risk are:
Problems may be:
You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation.
Your bodily fluids and tissues may be tested. This can be done with:
Images may be taken of structures in the body. This can be done with:
Muscles may be tested. This can be done with an electromyogram (EMG).
Lung function may be tested. This can be done with a pulmonary function test.
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There is no cure. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Choices are:
People with severe symptoms may be given immune globulin by IV. It contains antibodies that can block the unhealthy ones linked to dermatomyositis.
There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.
The Myositis Association
http://www.myositis.org
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
https://www.ninds.nih.gov
The Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca
Muscular Dystrophy Canada
http://www.muscle.ca
Dermatomyositis. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Dermatomyositis-Information-Page. Accessed October 23, 2020.
Dermatomyositis. EBSCO Dynamed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/dermatomyositis. Accessed October 23, 2020.
Ernste FC, Reed AM. Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: current trends in pathogenesis, clinical features, and up-to-date treatment recommendations. Mayo Clin Proc. 2013 Jan;88(1):83-105.
Last reviewed September 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD