Dermatomyositis – Idiopaticheskaya vospalitelynaya myopathy

Dermatomyositis (Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathy)

What is dermatomyositis?

Dermatomyositis – severe progressive disease, the main features of which are swelling and redness of the skin and muscle.

Dermatomyositis – causes

The exact cause of dermatomyositis is not known. Expected, that play a role autoimmune disorders. The immune system will recognize and attack viruses and harmful bacteria, penetrating the body. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system begins to attack normal healthy tissue.

Dermatomyositis may also occur after a viral infection.

Risk factors of dermatomyositis

The likelihood of developing dermatomyositis above, if you have a connective tissue disease, such as:

• Lupus erythematosus;
• Rheumatoid arthritis;
• Scleroderma;
• Diabetes – children.

Dermatomyositis also associated with the state of certain genes.

Dermatomyositis – symptoms

Dermatomyositis may cause:

• Skin changes, such as:
  • Purple, rough or scaly skin, rash, especially around the eyes, upper back, elbows or joints;
  • Itch, especially on the scalp;
  • Sensitivity to sunlight;
  • Nail changes;
  • Skin nodules;
• Problems with muscles, such as:
  • Weakness, particularly in the hips, arms or neck;
  • Aching pain in legs, shoulders, arms or neck;
  • Muscle stiffness;
  • Difficulty swallowing and speaking;
• Pain and discoloration fingers, especially at low temperatures;
• Joint pain;
• Breathlessness.

Dermatomyositis – diagnostics

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. You may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation of the health status.

They can be assigned to the following tests:

• Blood tests;
• Biopsy mыshts.

To assess the state of muscles can be assigned electromyogram (DOH).

For the diagnosis may need pictures of internal organs and structures. For this purpose, applied:

• MRI or ultrasound;
• CT scan (CT).

Dermatomyositis – treatment

Currently, there are no methods of full treatment of dermatomyositis. There are methods, helping to reduce the symptoms of the disease. Treatments include dermatomyositis:

Physical therapy for the treatment of dermatomyositis

You may be referred to a physical therapist, which will help to improve or prevent loss of muscle strength and function. Treatment may include:

• Exercises to maintain strength and flexibility;
• Education program supports exercise;
• Tips for changing the daily activities at the loss of muscle strength.

Medications for the treatment of dermatomyositis

Corticosteroids may suppress the immune system, thereby reducing the inflammation in the muscles. Steroids may also be applied to the skin, to alleviate the symptoms of cutaneous. Corticosteroids may cause problems, such as a decrease in bone density and increased risk of infection. To reduce these side effects, you will be assigned the lowest dose, necessary to relieve the symptoms of dermatomyositis. You can also take supplements, such as calcium and vitamin D, to prevent bone loss.

There are other variants of drugs taken, which can help in the suppression of the immune system. They can be used together or instead of corticosteroids.

Intravenous immunoglobulin for the treatment of dermatomyositis

Immunoglobulin is an antibody from several healthy donors. These antibodies can block the abnormal antibodies, associated with the occurrence of dermatomyositis. The procedure is done intravenously.

Introduction of an immunoglobulin must be repeated every few weeks.

Lifestyle changes to treat dermatomyositis

Regular exercise can help develop and maintain muscle strength. Consult with your doctor and physical therapist about safe exercise program. Relax, when necessary.

Your skin may be more sensitive to the sun. Use a sunscreen or protect the skin clothing and wear a headdress.

Prevention of dermatomyositis

At the moment, there is no any recommendations to prevent dermatomyositis.