DERMATOMYOSITIS

Dermatomyositis is a rare, chronic muscle disease that causes inflammation of the muscles and skin . Why it occurs is unknown; however, it is suspected to be caused by an autoimmune reaction or a viral infection of the skeletal muscle. Anyone can have this disease, even children. It is more common for women to have it. Usually no one gets it after age 60.

It usually begins with a rash. The rash is in patches, and is a blue-purple color. It can be on the eyelids, cheeks, bridge of the nose, and on the back and upper chest. Sometimes the rash is on the elbows, knees and knuckles of the hands.

Sometimes up to a year later the muscles start to feel weak. The weak muscles can also start with the rash. Muscle weakness can start gradually over a few weeks or months or sometimes within days. The weak muscles are usually in the neck, hip, trunk and shoulder. The muscles used for swallowing and breathing may weaken and cause difficulty when swallowing. This happens more often in children. Some people have hard lumps under the skin.

After a while, the weak muscles may make it hard to get out of a chair, to climb up stairs, lift things, or reach over the head. Combing hair may be hard to do. Occasionally, the muscles may ache, or feel tender when touched. A person with dermatomyositis may feel tired, lose weight, or have a slight fever.

There are many tests the healthcare provider may want to do to find out what is wrong.

Blood tests may be done or the provider may take a small piece of muscle for testing. An electromyography or EMG may be done. This test checks the muscle strength and how the muscle works.

Dermatomyositis can be treated several ways. Prednisone is the drug most often used for treatment. Immunosuppressive drugs that work on the immune system may also be used for treatment. Physical therapy keeps the muscles from getting smaller and helps them keep working. Getting enough rest is important in keeping this disease in control. It may even be necessary to take a break or nap during day. Whirlpool baths, heat, and gentle massage may help.

Usually the treatment helps. The disease may be worse in people who have heart or lung problems. They also do not get as much help from the treatment. It is very important to work closely with the provider in managing this disease. Often it will be necessary to see a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist is a provider who treats people with arthritis and other diseases of this type.

For more information about this disease contact the Myositis Association of America at www.myositis.org or by phone at 202-887-0082.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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