Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a
rare multisystem disorder of autoimmune aetiology characterized by an aseptic inflammation of the skin and striated muscles.
The symptoms and signs of acute and chronic JDM may include:
Acute type
- Fever
- Malaise
- Characteristic heliotrope rash on the upper eyelids
- Erythematous rash over the dorsal aspects of the MCP joints (Gottron’s sign) and on the chest
- Symmetrically painful/tender muscles with weakness, most marked proximally
- Difficulty swallowing solid food (dysphagia)
Chronic type
Arthralgia, possibly arthritis
Weakness, falls and stumbling
Inability to climb stairs and do press-ups
Soft tissue calcification in the limbs
Please consult your doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms.
Keyword: juvenile dermatomyositis symptoms.