A collagen disease with a wasting inflammation of the skin and muscles.
Dermatomyositis is a rheumatological disorder that involves multiple systems including skeletal muscle, skin, the gastrointestinal tract, and the central nervous system. Irregular skin lesions and muscle inflammation are among the most common clinical signs; however, patients may have arthralgias, arthritis, or cardiopulmonary dysfunction. Onset of dermatomyositis usually occurs in school- aged children between ages 8 and 9 and rarely occurs before the age of 2 years. Dermatomyositis malignancies occur in 20% of patients and more often in adults. However, other complications such as calcinosis occurs in approximately 20-50% of childhood cases.
A rare disease of the connective tissue characterized by skin rashes and inflammation and degeneration of muscles throughout the body. Although its exact cause remains unknown, doctors believe that dermatomyositis is caused by an autoimmune reaction or a viral infection. Certain drugs or vaccines can cause this disease.
An inflammatory disorder of the skin and underlying tissues, including the muscles (where breakdown of the muscle fibers occurs). The condition is one of the collagen diseases. A bluish-red skin eruption occurs on the face, scalp, neck, shoulders, and hands and is later accompanied by severe swelling. Dermatomyositis is often associated with internal cancer.
A rare disease, possibly caused by an autoimmune reaction, in which muscle inflammation and weakness is associated with a characteristic erythema of the face and backs of the hands. In adults it may be associated with underlying malignancy. Tissue changes are similar to those in polymyositis.
A rare acute, subacute, or chronic disease of connective tissue, of unknown cause, marked by edema, rash, weakness, pain, and inflammation of the muscles.
Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation of the muscles and skin. While the exact cause is often unknown, in certain cases, the disease has been associated with an underlying cancer.
Dermatomyositis leads to the development of a skin rash that typically emerges initially on the bridge of the nose and cheeks. This may be followed by a purple discoloration on the eyelids and, at times, a red rash on the knees, knuckles, and elbows. Individuals affected by this condition experience muscle weakness, stiffness, and pain, primarily in the shoulders and pelvis. They may struggle to raise their hands above their head or have difficulty standing up from a squatting position. Calcium deposits, particularly in children, can also be observed within the muscles.
Diagnosis of dermatomyositis involves medical examinations, blood tests, and a muscle tissue biopsy. Treatment typically involves the administration of corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressant drugs, along with physiotherapy. In approximately half of all cases, complete recovery is achieved within a few years. However, the remaining individuals may experience persistent muscle weakness. In certain instances, the disease can progress to affect the lungs and other organs, potentially leading to fatality.
A decline in the quality of skin and muscles, leading to muscle weakness and discomfort, rather than an inflammatory response. The severity of the condition can vary widely. Skin symptoms can be intense, including swelling and redness, or they may be entirely absent.