How To Manage Dermatomyositis Effectively

Dermatomyositis is a rare type of inflammatory condition that results in skin rashes and muscle weakness. Both children and adults are affected by dermatomyositis, and females are more likely to develop the condition than males. In children, dermatomyositis typically presents between five and fifteen years old, and adults with the condition generally develop symptoms in their late forties to early sixties. The rash associated with this condition is usually red, and it frequently appears on the eyelids, face, chest, and back. Some patients may also have the rash on their knees, knuckles, and in the areas surrounding the fingernails. The muscle weakness associated with dermatomyositis is most noticeable in the upper arms, shoulders, neck, hips, and thighs. Patients may develop calcinosis (painful nodules of calcium just underneath the skin) or panniculitis (inflammation of the subcutaneous fat layer). Heart and blood vessel inflammation may be observed. To diagnose dermatomyositis, skin or muscle biopsies may be taken, and patients may also need blood tests, chest x-rays, MRI scans, and an electromyography study.