Dermatomyositis

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998 Dec;39(6):899-920; quiz 921-2. doi: 10.1016/s0190-9622(98)70263-4.

Abstract

Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory myopathy with characteristic skin manifestations and muscular weakness. The disease can be categorized as adult idiopathic, juvenile, or amyopathic dermatomyositis as well as that associated with a connective tissue disease or a malignancy. Immunologic factors are most likely involved in the pathogenesis of the disease; however, genetic and environmental issues may also play important roles. Treatment with immunosuppressive agents has proved successful in the majority of patients, although significant morbidity still occurs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoantibodies / blood
  • Dermatomyositis* / diagnosis
  • Dermatomyositis* / immunology
  • Dermatomyositis* / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Autoantibodies