Dermatomyositis; a Rare and Chronic Inflammatory Disorder That Affects Skin and Muscle

 

Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory disease marked by muscle weakness and distinctive skin rash. This systemic disorder most frequently affects the skin and muscles but may also affect the joints, the lungs, the esophagus, and, less commonly, the heart. Dermatomyositis is are but a long-term inflammatory disorder which affects skin and the muscles. It is a rare condition that causes muscle inflammation. It presents with symmetric proximal muscle weakness, skin rash, and extramacular manifestations, such as esophageal dysfunction and interstitial lung disease.

Global Dermatomyositis Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 493.15 million in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 696.57 million by 2030, witnessing a CAGR of 4.4% over the forecast period (2022-2030).

The cause of dermatomyositis is unknown. Experts think it may be due to a viral infection of the muscles or a problem with the body's immune system. It is a serious disorder that in rare cases can be fatal. Thus, it is important to get diagnosed and start treatment as early as possible. Symptoms include a dusky-red rash on the face and eyelids and in areas around the elbows, knuckles, knees, nails, back, and chest. Muscle weakness is frequent. However, some people may initially develop generalized symptoms, such as fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, inflammation, and pain.

While there is no cure for dermatomyositis, but treatment can improve the skin and muscle strength and function. Symptoms can often be managed with long-term (sometimes life-long) medications and physical therapy. For some people, dermatomyositis resolves on its own about five years after diagnosis. In others, symptoms may last for lifetime. Anti-MDA5 dermatomyositis is a systemic autoimmune disease, has historically been described in Japanese people with clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis and life-threatening rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease.

The condition can affect adults and children. In adults, dermatomyositis usually occurs in the late 40s to early 60s. In children, it most often appears between 5 and 15 years of age. The condition may also occur in people who have cancer in the abdomen, lung, or other parts of the body.