Dermatomyositis - A connective-tissue disease related to polymyositis (PM). Dermatomyositis
is characterised by inflammation of the muscles and the skin. Anyone can develop
dermatomyositis, but it most commonly occurs in children age 5 - 15 and adults age
40 - 60.
Affects women more than men - 2:1
One of a group of muscle diseases known as the inflammatory myopathies, which are
characterised by chronic muscle inflammation accompanied by muscle weakness.
Children and adults with dermatomyositis may develop calcium deposits, which appear
as hard bumps under the skin or in the muscle (called calcinosis).
Most cases of dermatomyositis respond to therapy. The disease is usually more severe
and resistant to therapy in individuals with cardiac or pulmonary problems.
