What Is Dermatomyositis?

By kara

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Not many people have heard of dermatomyositis as it is a very rare condition affecting the connective tissues of the body, making it similar to other connective tissue diseases such as lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. The condition affects both the muscles and the outer layer of the skin.

For individuals living with this inflammatory disease, it can be difficult to get the facts since there is still much information that is not known about dermatomyositis. Designating funds and getting public support for gathering research on this condition is essential for helping people find relief. While there are many gaps in knowledge, answers to these questions about the illness help provide some guidance.

1. How Is Dermatomyositis Related to Myositis?

Dermatomyositis is actually a subcategory of myositis. While the word myositis is often used to describe all kinds of muscle swelling, the condition of myositis refers specifically to any type of disease that involves chronic muscle inflammation. Many of the ailments that fall under this category are also autoimmune conditions.

The five main types of myositis include dermatomyositis, polymyositis, necrotizing myopathy, sporadic inclusion body myositis, and juvenile myositis. The symptoms for all these conditions vary, and they primarily affect different age groups and genders.