Dermatomyositis is a rare disease that causes inflammation of the skin and muscles. The inflammation can cause an itchy rash and skin thickening, as well as muscle weakness and pain.

Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disease, in which the body produces antibodies that attack its own tissues. The disease mainly affects middle-aged women. It is treated with medications to control inflammation and with physical therapy to help relieve muscle problems.

Some people with dermatomyositis may get better within a few years. Others may have persistent problems that, in some cases, may affect other organs and become severe.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Last Revised	July 5, 2009