Muscle Disorders

Question 1

What is DERMATOMYOSITIS?

Answer 1

Inflammatory disorder - causing muscle weakness and characteristic skin lesions
May be idiopathic. May also be associated with connective tissue disorders or underlying malignancy (Ovarian, Breast and Lung CA)

Question 2

What are the skin features of DERMAMYOSITIS?

Answer 2

• Photosensitive, macular rash over back and shoulder
• Heliotrope rash in the periorbital region
• ‘Mechanic’s hands’
• Nail fold capillary dilatation
• ‘Gottron’s papules’ - rough red papules over extensor surfaces of fingers

Question 3

What are the other features of DERMAMYOSITIS?

Answer 3

• Proximal muscle weakness
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Respiratory muscle weakness
• Interstitial lung disease
• Dysphagia/ Dysphonia

Question 4

What are the features of MYOPATHIES?

Answer 4

Symmetrical muscle weakness - common problems are rising from a chair or getting out of a bath etc.
Other findings are normal: Sensation, reflexes etc. no fasciculations

Causes: Polymyositis, muscle dystrophy, Cushing’s, thyrotoxicosis, alcohol