Abstract
Dermatomyositis (DM) is arare autoimmune disease with involvement of skin and muscle that is classified as an idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. In addition to cutaneous lesions as well as weakness and atrophy of muscles, the heart and lungs are the major affected organs. DM occurs in association with malignant tumors in 20% of affected adults. The pathogenesis of the disease is not completely understood. DM is amultifactorial disease influenced by genetic, environmental and immunological factors. The immune response is characterized by activation of innate and adaptive immune mechanisms and astrong activation of the typeI interferon pathway. Myositis-specific antibodies are characteristic of DM and allow differential diagnosis. Therapies include corticosteroids, antimalarials, immunoglobulins, biologics such as rituximab or JAK inhibitors. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the prognosis.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
