Dermatomyositis with no muscle involvement: Understanding causes, signs, and additional information
Clinical Amyopathic Dermatomyositis (CADM) is a subtype of dermatomyositis, a rare condition affecting approximately 9.63 in every million people. CADM, characterised by typical skin manifestations of dermatomyositis without clinically apparent muscle weakness, accounts for less than 20% of dermatomyositis cases.
The hallmark symptoms of CADM include distinctive skin rashes, such as purplish or violaceous plaques on the face, neck, scalp, upper back, and hands. These rashes are often itchy or sensitive but not typically painful. Other systemic symptoms may include persistent low-grade fever, weight loss, joint pain, and morning stiffness.
Potential complications associated with CADM are of significant concern. Interstitial lung disease (ILD), a serious complication, especially in patients with anti-MDA5 antibodies, can rapidly progress, leading to respiratory failure. This complication is common and can be life-threatening. Other systemic complications, while less frequent, include laryngeal edema, an increase in the risk of malignancies, skin and muscle calcinosis, vasculitis, and connective tissue diseases.
Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential to improve outcomes. During the diagnosis of CADM, a doctor may ask about symptoms and medical history, examine a person's skin, perform certain blood tests, test muscle enzyme levels, and look for the presence of anti-melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5) antibodies in a person's blood.
ADM typically develops in early adulthood and is more likely to affect people assigned female at birth. It is listed as an autoimmune disease by the charity Myositis Support and Understanding.
CADM can be difficult to diagnose due to its similarities with other conditions such as undifferentiated connective tissue disease, mixed connective tissue disease, dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis. A person should contact their doctor as soon as possible if they develop any signs of CADM.
While there is currently no cure for dermatomyositis or other forms of myositis, treatments for CADM may help manage symptoms. The National Organization for Rare Disorders lists topical corticosteroids, certain antimalarial drugs, immunosuppressants like methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil, and intravenous (IV) immunoglobulin as potential treatments for CADM.
Further research is necessary to confirm any potential triggers, such as exposure to pollution, and to better understand the specific causes of CADM. A 2018 study found that more than 25% of people with CADM go on to develop cancer, and dermatomyositis is often associated with the development of breast cancer.
Individuals living with CADM should be vigilant for potential complications, particularly interstitial lung disease, which can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, dry cough, chest discomfort, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Damage to the lungs due to ILD can be irreversible and worsen over time.
- The immunesystem, which plays a crucial role in the body's defense, is often affected in Clinical Amyopathic Dermatomyositis (CADM), an autoimmune medical-condition that can lead to other autoimmune disorders.
- In addition to the distinctive skin rashes that are common with CADM, an individual may also face neurological-disorders such as laryngeal edema, or an increased risk of malignancies.
- Important skin-care, such as using topical corticosteroids and certain antimalarial drugs, can help manage the symptoms of CADM, as suggested by the National Organization for Rare Disorders.
- While scientists have made progress in understanding the hallmark symptoms and potential treatments for CADM, further research is needed to confirm any potential triggers and better comprehend the specific causes of this rare health-and-wellness condition, especially its association with the development of certain cancers like breast cancer.
