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Dermatomyositis |
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Dermatomyositis
Although dermatomyositis may occur at any age, it mostly affects adults in their late 40s to early 60s or children between 5 and 15 years of age. Women have it more often than men do. Dermatomyositis in children is distinct from the adult form. The disease usually develops over weeks or months. Dermatomyositis is a relatively rare disease marked by muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash. Because of similarities in signs, symptoms and treatment, it's often discussed in conjunction with polymyositis. Both conditions fall into the category of inflammatory muscle diseases - myo means "muscles" in Greek; itis means "inflamed." Derma, which means "skin," implies the skin-related signs and symptoms that accompany the muscle inflammation.
When to seek medical advice If you experience any of the signs or symptoms of dermatomyositis, see your doctor. The earlier the disease is detected, the better your response may be to treatment. With treatment, you can manage and sometimes even reverse your signs and symptoms. If you have difficulty swallowing or shortness of breath, call your doctor as soon as possible, as this may indicate rapid progression of the disease and the need for immediate help. Screening and diagnosis Dermatomyositis is the most easily recognized of the inflammatory muscle diseases because of its characteristic rash. Occasionally, a rash alone may prompt a diagnosis of dermatomyositis without muscle involvement (amyopathic dermatomyositis). In addition to a thorough physical exam, including examination of muscle strength, and a detailed family medical history, your doctor may use some or all of the following tests to assist in the diagnosis:
Dermatomyositis > 1 > 2 > 3 > 4
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