Dermatomyositis

Overview

Dermatomyositis (dur-muh-toe-my-uh-SY-tis) is a rare inflammatory disease that affects both the skin and muscles. It primarily manifests as muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash. Here are the key points:

1. Skin Changes:

   • A violet-colored or dusky red rash typically appears on the face, eyelids, knuckles, elbows, knees, chest, and back.
   • The rash can be itchy and painful, often serving as an early sign of dermatomyositis.

2. Muscle Weakness:

   • Progressive muscle weakness affects muscles closest to the trunk, including hips, thighs, shoulders, upper arms, and neck.
   • Weakness occurs on both sides of the body and tends to worsen gradually.

3. Age and Gender:

   • Dermatomyositis usually occurs in adults aged 40 to 60 and children between 5 and 15 years.
   • It affects more females than males.

Types of Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis can be classified based on the extent of skin or muscle involvement:

1. Classic Dermatomyositis:

   • Presents with both skin rash and muscle weakness.
   • Skin changes precede muscle weakness.

2. Amyopathic Dermatomyositis (DM sine myositis):

   • Skin rash without significant muscle weakness.
   • Fatigue may be a prominent symptom.

Causes of Dermatomyositis

The exact cause of dermatomyositis remains unknown, but several factors contribute:

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction:

   • Dermatomyositis shares similarities with autoimmune disorders.
   • The immune system mistakenly attacks body tissues, leading to inflammation.

2. Genetic and Environmental Factors:

   • Genetic predisposition may play a role.
   • Environmental triggers include viral infections, sun exposure, medications, and smoking.

3. Increased Risk:

   • More common in individuals assigned female at birth.
   • Viral infections and sun exposure elevate the risk.

Risk Factors of Dermatomyositis

1. Gender:
   • Dermatomyositis is more common in individuals assigned female at birth.
2. Genetics:
   • Certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) types may increase the risk of developing dermatomyositis.
3. Environmental Factors:
   • Viral infections, sun exposure, certain medications, and smoking might play a role in triggering dermatomyositis.

Symptoms of Dermatomyositis

Preventions of Dermatomyositis

1. Sun Protection:
   • Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to shield your skin from sun exposure.
2. Regular Follow-Up Care:
   • Attend therapy exercises, take prescribed medications, and keep up with follow-up appointments.
3. Avoid UV Exposure:
   • Minimize exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight.

Diagnosis of Dermatomyositis

• Blood tests, imaging (X-ray, MRI), and muscle biopsy reveal inflammation.
• Electromyography (EMG) assesses muscle electrical activity.

Treatment for Dermatomyositis

• Medications (e.g., Prednisone, Azathioprine) reduce inflammation.
• Arthroscopy removes painful calcium deposits.
• Physical therapy restores muscle strength.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience muscle weakness or an unexplained rash, consult a healthcare provider promptly.