Dermatomyositis Flashcards
1
Q
What age groups are most likely to present with dermatomyositis?
A
5-15 years
40-60 years
2
Q
What investigations should be conducted in dermatomyositis?
A
Serum CK / aldolase - increased in myositis
Muscle biopsy - can be diagnostic
Skin biopsy - can be diagnostic
EMG
ANA - may be raised
Myositis antibodies - may be raised and used to determine classification of dermatomyositis
3
Q
What are the management options for dermatomyositis?
A
Acute phase - IV steroids, IVIG, immunosuppressants (methotrexate, cyclophosphamide), rituximab
Ongoing phase - oral steroids, photo protection, IVIG, immunosuppressants
4
Q
What are the potential complications of dermatomyositis?
A
- Cutaneous calcinosis
- Respiratory tract infections
- Interstitial lung disease
- Cardiac disease
- Dysphagia
- Malignancy
- Treatment associated side effects
- Corticosteroid associated toxicities
- Immunosupression related infection
5
Q
What antibodies may be positive in dermatomyositis?
A
Anti-M2
Myositis specific antibodies
ANA
