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 This information is provided by an independent source. Merck & Co., Inc. is not responsible for this content. Please discuss any and all treatment options with your healthcare professional. The manufacturer of a product generally has the most complete information about that product.
DermatomyositisDefinitionDermatomyositis is a muscle disease characterized by inflammation and a skin rash. It is a type of inflammatory myopathy. CausesThe 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. Symptoms
The muscle weakness may appear suddenly or develop slowly over weeks or months. You may have difficulty raising your arms over your head, rising from a sitting position, and climbing stairs. The rash may appear over the face, knuckles, neck, shoulders, upper chest, and back. Exams and TestsThe doctor will perform a physical exam. Tests may include:
TreatmentThis version of the Encyclopedia has no treatment information. Please discuss any and all treatment options for your condition with your healthcare professional. Outlook (Prognosis)Some people may recover and have symptoms completely disappear. Doctors have reported several such cases, especially in children. In adults, death may result from severe and prolonged muscle weakness, malnutrition, pneumonia, or lung failure. The major causes of death are cancer (malignancy) and lung disease. Possible Complications
When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall for an appointment with your health care provider if you have muscle weakness or other symptoms of this condition. ReferencesGoldman L, Ausiello D. Goldman: Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2007.
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. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. 
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