Dermatomyositis is known by two key symptoms — muscle weakness and skin rashes — but in many cases, skin problems are the first to appear. Dr. Guillermo Valenzuela and Dr. Marilu Colon at Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists encourage you to come in for an examination as soon as you notice symptoms, so that you can get early treatment. To learn more about dermatomyositis, call the office in Plantation, Florida, or use online booking to schedule an appointment.
Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory muscle disease. It develops when an abnormal immune response damages small blood vessels in your muscles and the connective tissues of your skin. As a result, inflammation develops that leads to tissue damage.
Although the primary symptoms involve your muscles, dermatomyositis also causes skin changes. In about 40% of cases, skin symptoms appear before muscle weakness develops.
Dermatomyositis can occur at any age, but most often appears in children between the ages of five and 15, or in adults in their late 40s to early 60s.
Symptoms typically develop slowly over a few weeks or months, but in some cases, they appear suddenly. You’ll experience:
Some patients develop additional symptoms, such as:
Your individualized treatment plan may include any of the following:
Dermatomyositis is a complex disease that requires customized treatment from specialists, so call Integral Rheumatology & Immunology Specialists or book an appointment online.