What are polymyositis and dermatomyositis?
Disease description:
Polymyositis in humans is generally associated with symptoms such as muscle weakness, whereas dermatomyositis is more commonly accompanied by joint pain; the two conditions present differently. Could you explain what polymyositis and dermatomyositis are?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Aihua
Polymyositis and dermatomyositis both belong to the category of idiopathic inflammatory diseases, a group of non-suppurative inflammatory disorders of skeletal muscle characterized primarily by proximal limb weakness and myalgia, although the exact cause remains unclear. Currently, these conditions are considered to result from a combination of genetic factors, viral infections, and immune system abnormalities. Dermatomyositis may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, arthralgia, fatigue, weight loss, interstitial lung disease, and skin rash. Diagnosis is generally based on clinical presentation, physical signs, elevated muscle enzymes, and response to treatment. The mainstay of therapy includes corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents.
