POLYMYOSITIS & DERMATOMYOSITIS

 Basic information

description

Polymyositis is muscle inflammation that leads to a gradual weakening of the muscles. When the disorder involves the skin, it is called dermatomyositis. Women are affected more often than men. It usually begins after age 20. It may also occur in children.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Symptoms vary from person to person and may be mild to severe. Their onset may be sudden or slow.
• Muscle weakness that often begins in the hip, thighs, and shoulder muscles. Other muscles may be affected.
• Frequent falls and difficulty in getting up.
• Difficulty in climbing stairs and getting up from a chair or bed.
• Muscle pain, stiffness, or swelling.
• Skin rash that may itch on the face, shoulders, arms, and over joints. The rash may be red or violet.
• Cold hands and feet.
• Speaking or swallowing difficulty.

causes

Exact cause is unknown. They may be autoimmune disorders. In these disorders, the immune system by mistake attacks the body. Other factors may be involved such as viral, genetic, or environmental causes.

risk increases with

• Females over age 20.
• Family history of autoimmune disorders.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No known preventive measures.

expected outcomes

The outcome varies. Symptoms can improve at times and get worse at other times. Earlier diagnosis and treatment improves the outcome. Some patients recover completely. Others have persistent symptoms, such as weakness. Others may have complications that can lead to disability and be life-threatening.

possible complications

• Progressive muscle weakness.
• Heart, gastrointestinal, and lung problems.
• Adverse effects of drugs.
• Skin ulcers (open sores), infections, and scarring.
• Polymyositis has been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers (e.g., colon, lung, ovarian, and breast).

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and an exam of any affected skin. Medical tests may include blood studies, heart tests, x-ray, and MRI. A biopsy may be done, which involves removal of a small amount of muscle tissue for viewing under a microscope. An electromyogram may be done. This test studies the electrical activity of muscles.
• Treatment usually involves drugs, physical therapy, or other therapy to help with activities of daily living.
• To learn more: The Myositis Association, 1737 King St., Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22314; (800) 821-7356; website: www.myositis.org.

medications

• Your health care provider may prescribe:
  • Cortisone drugs, in high doses until acute symptoms diminish, then in lower doses.
  • Drugs to suppress the immune system.
  • Drugs to help control itching.
  • Drugs for pain.
  • Drugs for bone building.

activity

Physical therapy may be prescribed. It helps keep muscles flexible, strong, and functional. Follow instructions for exercises to do at home. Swimming is a good exercise. Don't overdo any activity. Rest as needed.

diet

No special diet. Avoid weight gain.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of polymyositis or dermatomyositis.
• Symptoms don't improve or they recur despite treatment.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

Special Notes: