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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. Complications If the muscles in your esophagus are affected, you may have problems swallowing (dysphagia), which in turn may cause weight loss and malnutrition. Dysphagia may also lead to entrance of food or liquids, including saliva, into your lungs (aspiration), which can lead to pneumonia. If your chest muscles are involved, you may experience breathing problems, such as shortness of breath. Ulceration and bleeding can occur in the gastrointestinal system. Deposits of calcium in your muscles, skin and connective tissues (calcinosis) can occur late in the disease, particularly if you've had the disease for a long time.
Dermatomyositis may be associated with other conditions, including:
The outcome (prognosis) of dermatomyositis tends to be better if there are no associated complications such as esophageal damage, lung disease or cancer. Early diagnosis is important, because it can lead to prompt treatment and evaluation of associated conditions. Early treatment of children can prevent the development of calcinosis, a condition that can be hard to treat once it's established. Pregnancy may worsen symptoms in women with active disease. Active dermatomyositis can also increase the risk of premature birth or stillbirth. If the disease is in remission, the risk isn't as great. Dermatomyositis > 1 > 2 > 3 > 4
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