Myopathies
A myopathy is a disease of the muscle or damage to the muscle. One type of myopathy is dermatomyositis or idiopathic inflammatory myopathy.
Dermatomyositis is a progressive connective tissue disorder characterized by inflammatory and degenerative changes of the muscles and skin. Symptoms and physical findings may be different from case to case. Muscle abnormalities may begin with aches and weakness of the muscles of the trunk, upper arms, hips, and thighs. Muscles may be stiff, sore, and tender and, eventually, show signs of degeneration. Those who suffer from dermatomyositis may have difficulty raising their arms and/or climbing stairs. In addition, some may experience speech and swallowing difficulties.
Symptoms of the skin associated with dermatomyositis often include:
- a reddish-purple rash on the upper eyelids, across the cheeks and bridge of the nose in a "butterfly" pattern, the forehead, or additional skin regions;
- scaling and degeneration of affected skin on the surface of knuckles, elbows, knees, and/or other regions;
- abnormal fluid accumulation in body tissues around the eyes; and/or other features.
Although the exact cause of dermatomyositis is not known, it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder.