Dermatopolymyositis

Dermatopolymyositis is a rare inflammatory disease marked by muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash. It is an autoimmune disorder, which occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own body tissues.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of dermatopolymyositis include:

• Muscle weakness, typically affecting muscles closest to the trunk, such as those in your hips, thighs, shoulders, upper arms and neck.
• Skin rash, which often appears before muscle weakness. The rash looks patchy, with purple or red discolorations, and characteristically develops on the eyelids and on muscles used to control the neck, shoulders and hips.
• Difficulty swallowing (Dysphagia)
• Lung problems
• Arthritis
• Fatigue
• Fever

Causes

The exact cause of dermatopolymyositis is unknown, but the disease has similarities to autoimmune disorders, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dermatopolymyositis is based on a physical examination, medical history, and certain diagnostic tests. These tests may include:

• Blood tests
• Electromyography
• MRI
• Muscle biopsy
• Skin biopsy

Treatment

Treatment for dermatopolymyositis is aimed at controlling the skin rash and improving muscle strength and function. Options include:

• Corticosteroids
• Immunosuppressants
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Dietary changes

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with dermatopolymyositis varies. Some people experience a mild, self-limited disease while others have a chronic illness with progressive disability.

See also

• Polymyositis
• Dermatomyositis
• Autoimmune diseases

Dermatopolymyositis Resources
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