Overview
What is Inflammatory Myopathy?
Inflammatory Myopathy is an autoimmune disease that causes muscle inflammation, leading to weakness.
There are many types of myositis. Common ones are:
Left: Heliotrope Rash, Right: Shawl Sign
Photos retrieved from Myositis Support and Understanding
Causes
Who are at Risk of Inflammatory Myopathies?
Inflammatory Myopathies are rare diseases that affect every five to ten people in a million worldwide.
It can affect people of any age but the two main clusters are:
Women are twice more likely to be affected compared to men.
In adults, Dermatomyositis may be related to underlying cancer. Therefore, all adult patients with these disorders should receive appropriate testing to rule out cancer.
1. Muscle Weakness/Pain:
One of the main symptoms. Usually affects muscles located at the centre of the body (e.g. neck, shoulders, hips and thighs).
Patients may experience:
2. Rashes
Left: Gottron's Papules, Right: Mechanic's Hands
Photos retrieved from Kelly and Firestein's Textbook on Rheumatology
Detection & Treatment
Can This Disease Be Cured?
The extent of recovery depends on the type of myositis. Most patients with Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis are able to regain most of their muscle strength with early treatment.
The control of myositis in patients with concurrent cancer usually depends on the control of the cancer. This means that the myositis symptoms tend to resolve when the cancer responds to treatment.
How is Inflammatory Myopathy Treated?
Adjunct Therapy and Diet Modification:
Physical therapy involves participating in specially-designed physiotherapy programs to regain muscle strength. Those with swallowing difficulties may require a modified diet or temporary use of feeding tube and subsequent follow-up(s) with the speech therapist.
Medications:
Corticosteroid and immunosuppressant are commonly used treatments. In severe cases, intravenous immunoglobulins (antibody drips through the veins) or rituximab (a biologic) may be used.
Care Management
General Dermatomyositis:
For patients with Dermatomyositis, sun protection is important as ultraviolet (UV) light exposure can worsen the rash.
Cancer-Associated Dermatomyositis:
In this group of patients, treatment of cancer should take place concurrently. This may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy sequentially or in combination.
What Can I Do Now That I Have This Condition?
IF YOU HAVE ANY PROBLEMS WITH YOUR TREATMENT PLEASE CONTACT YOUR OWN DOCTOR.
Specialties & Services
