What is dermatomyositis?
Dermatomyositis is an uncommon inflammatory disease marked by muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash.
The condition can affect adults and children. In adults, dermatomyositis usually occurs in the late 40s to early 60s. In children, it most often appears between 5 and 15 years of age.
Dermatomyositis affects more females than males.
There's no cure for dermatomyositis, but periods of symptom improvement can occur. Treatment can help clear the skin rash and help you regain muscle strength and function.
Causes
The cause of dermatomyositis is unknown, but the disease has much in common with autoimmune disorders, in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your body tissues.
Genetic and environmental factors also might play a role. Environmental factors could include viral infections, sun exposure, certain medications and smoking.
Possible complications of dermatomyositis include:
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Aspiration pneumonia.
- Breathing problems.
- Calcium deposits. These can occur in your muscles, skin and connective tissues as the disease progresses.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dermatomyositis/symptoms-causes/syc-
20353188
