Juvenile Dermatomyositis in an Indian girl: a rare condition in childhood - A Case Report

Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) is the most common inflammatory myositis in children, distinguished by proximal muscle weakness and a characteristic rash. Inflammatory cell infiltrates result in vascular inflammation, the underlying pathology in this disorder. Its incidence is approximately 3 cases/1 million children/year. Peak age of onset is between 4 and 10 years. Etiology is multifactorial, based on genetic predisposition and an unknown environmental trigger.The cutaneous manifestations are the most important aspect of this disease, and their correct evaluation is important for early diagnosis. A 7 year old female child with proximal muscle weakness of all four limbs, heliotrope rash of the eyelids and Gottron papules was diagnosed to have JDM. This case report aims to highlight that it is a rare but potentially life threatening autoimmune disease of childhood. So it has to be diagnosed early and treatment should be initiated to prevent long term complications. Children with this condition appear able to repair inflammatory damage to vasculature and muscle.

Author(s): Neha Chowdary, Asha Benakappa, Ramesh M and Dakshayani

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