dermatomyositis

dermatomyositis A chronic inflammatory disease of muscle causing weakness that is associated with patches of slightly raised reddish or scaly rash. The rash can be on the bridge of the nose, around the eyes, or on sun-exposed areas of the neck and chest. Classically, however, it is over the knuckles. When inflammation of the muscle (myositis) occurs without skin disease, the condition is referred to as polymyositis. It affects both children and adults. The most common symptom is muscle weakness, usually affecting the muscles that are closest to the trunk of the body (proximal). Trouble with swallowing may occur. Occasionally, the muscles ache and are tender to touch. Some patients develop hardened bumps of calcium deposits under the skin. Treatment involves steroid drugs, such as prednisolone or prednisone. Other treatments including immunosuppressing drugs, such as azathioprine and methotrexate, may be prescribed. Intravenous immunoglobulin can be effective for severe dermatomyositis. Physical therapy is usually recommended to preserve muscle function and avoid muscle atrophy. Both dermatomyositis and polymyositis can sometimes be associated with cancers, including lymphoma, breast, lung, ovarian, and colon cancer. See also polymyositis.