Causes
The exact cause of dermatomyositis is not known. It may be an autoimmune disorder. The immune system identifies and attacks viruses and bad bacteria in your body. An autoimmune disorder means the immune system begins to attack normal healthy tissue.
A viral infection may trigger the onset of dermatomyositis.
Risk Factors
Your chance of developing dermatomyositis is higher if you have a connective tissue disorder such as:
Symptoms
Dermatomyositis may cause:
-
Skin changes such as:
- Violet-colored, bumpy, or scaly skin rash (especially around the eyes, upper back, elbows, or knuckles)
- Itching, especially the scalp
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Calcium deposits
-
Muscle
problems such as:
- Weakness especially in hips, thighs, arms or neck
- Aching pain in legs, shoulder, arm, or neck
- Tender muscles
- Difficulty swallowing and speaking
- Aching and color changes (red, white, and blue) in fingers, especially in cold temperatures
- Joint pain
- Shortness of breath
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation.
Blood tests may be done to look for infections or signs of muscle damage and inflammation. Your doctor may also do a series of tests on the muscle including:
- Electromyogram (EMG) —to test muscle activity
- Muscle biopsy —to take a sample of muscle tissue
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound—to detect inflammation in your muscles.
Other tests that may be done to help rule out other conditions or complications include:
- Skin biopsy—to take a sample of skin tissue
- Cancer tests—dermatomyositis is associated with cancer about 15% of the time
- CAT scan (CT) —to look for any lung involvement
Treatment
There is no cure for dermatomyositis. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Physical Therapy
You may be referred to a physical therapist. The therapist will help improve or prevent the loss of muscle strength and function. It may include:
- Strength and flexibility exercises
- Guidelines for a general exercise program
- Tips to modify day to day activities if muscle weakness is interfering
Medication
Corticosteroids can suppress your immune system. This will decrease inflammation in the muscle. Steroid medication can also be used on the skin to relieve skin symptoms. Corticosteroids can cause problems, like lower bone density. To lower this effect your doctor will use the lowest dose needed to control your symptoms. You may also be asked to take supplement like calcium and vitamin D to improve your bone strength.
There are other medication options that can help to suppress the immune system. They may be used with or instead of the corticosteroids.
Intravenous Immune Globulin
Immune globulin has healthy antibodies from several donors. These antibodies can block the unhealthy antibodies associated with dermatomyositis. It is given through an IV.
The infusion needs to be repeated every few weeks.
Lifestyle Changes
Regular exercise can help you develop and maintain muscle strength. Modify the program as needed to prevent irritating your condition. Check with your doctor and physical therapist for exercise guidelines. Rest when needed.
Your skin may also be more sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or cover your skin with clothes or a hat.
