DERMATOMYOSITIS

Dermatomyositis is one of a group of diseases called idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Inflammation occurs in muscles, organs, and tissues. “Myositis” means muscle inflammation.

ABOUT DISEASE

Dermatomyositis is distinguished from other myositis by the presence of an itchy rash on the face, chest, neck, and/or thighs.

SYMPTOMS

+ symmetric muscle weakness – typically of the proximal muscles
+ Antisynthetase syndrome – Anti-Jo-1 antibody (20% of dermatomyositis patients)

+ skin changes – Gottron’s papules, shawl sign, V sign, Heliotrope rash, nail abnormalities, mechanic’s hands, scalp
+ elevation of creatine kinase (CK) levels

+ lung disease – most commonly in patients with antisynthetase antibodies
+ muscle inflammation

YOUR POINT OF CONTACT

Catherine

ABOUT | I am a mother of a three year old and site supervisor of a state preschool program in Santa Cruz, CA

AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES | Chronic EBV

SPECIALISTS

+ Rheumatologist
+ Dermatologist
+ Physical Therapist

BLOOD TESTS

+ Creatine kinase (CK) – 1x/month
+ C-Reactive Protein (CRP) – 1x/month
+ Sedimentation Rate (ESR) – 1x/month
+ Aldolase – 1x/month
+ Myosotis Assessor + Jo 1 antibody – initial

MEDICATIONS

+ Prednisone
+ Methotrexate
+ Azathioprine

METHODS OF HEALING

Exercise 2-3 times per week to encourage muscle strength and flexibility. This may only be possible with the support of a physical therapist at first. Once enough strength has been gained to move more independently, find an activity that allows you accommodate. For example, a yoga class with an instructor who can suggest accommodations, or a cycling class that allows you to adjust resistance.

Include nutritionally dense foods and/or bio-available supplements to ensure your body is getting vitamins and minerals. Some of the things I include in my diet are;

Dandelion Root (ie. Dandy Blend)
Chaga mushroom
Lions Mane mushroom
Cordyceps mushroom
fermented Turmeric
Vitamin C
Ashwagandha
Rhodiola

AUTOIMMUNE RESOURCES

Here are some great websites, authors, podcasts and other resources to help you navigate your Autoimmune Disease.

Dermatomysitis – Up to Date

ALL RESOURCES

AUTOIMMUNE STORIES

These are the women that have shared their autoimmune journey with us. Please take a moment to read some of their brave, honest and revealing stories about their diagnosis, successes, hardships and their lives.