Definition
Dermatomyositis is a muscle disease characterized by inflammation and a skin rash. It is a type of inflammatory myopathy.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The cause of dermatomyositis is unknown. Experts think it may be due to a viral infection of the muscles or a problem with the body’s immune system.
Anyone can develop dermatomyositis, but it most commonly occurs in children age 5 – 15 and adults age 40 – 60. Women develop this condition more often than men do.
Polymyositis is a similar condition, but the symptoms occur without a skin rash.
Pictures & Images
Dermatomyositis, Gottron’s papule
Red, thickened, scaly skin over the knuckles (Gottron’s sign) associated with dermatomyositis, an autoimmune disease of the skin and muscles.
Dermatomyositis, Gottron’s papules on the hand
This violet-colored inflammation (erythema) over the knuckles is caused by Dermatomyositis. Other skin conditions produce more redness, while the color of this lesion is violet. There may also be inflammation in the muscle tissue.
Dermatomyositis, heliotrope eyelids
This photograph demonstrates the sign “heliotrope eyelids” in which the eyelids develop a brown (violaceous – rather than red) color. Heliotrope eyelids and Gottron’s papules on the knuckles are characteristic findings in dermatomyositis.
Dermatomyositis on the legs
The appearance of purple (violaceous) plaques on the knees may be associated with dermatomyositis. Typically, most lesions associated with other diseases are red (erythematous).
Dermatomyositis, Gottron’s papule
This is�Gottron’s sign, seen in dermatomyositis (an inflammatory disease of the muscles and skin). Violet-colored inflammation over the knuckles is an important diagnostic finding in dermatomyositis, since other skin conditions produce more redness.
Paronychia, candidial
Candida paronychia produced periungual erythema, edema and nail fold maceration.
Dermatomyositis, heliotrope rash on the face
Inflammation of the connective tissues (dermatomyositis) typically produces a reddish-purple (violaceous) rash. The rash is named after the tendency of plants to grow toward the sun (heliotropic) and is characteristic of dermatomyositis.
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Dermatomyositis : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Dermatomyositis : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Dermatomyositis : Treatment
Review Date : 2/5/2009
Reviewed By : Jonathan Kantor, MD, North Florida Dermatology Associates, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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