Dermatomyositis in the pediatric patient.

Forty-one children with dermatomyositis who were treated with corticosteroids and who have been followed over a period of 15 years have been presented. Progressive proximal muscle weakness was seen in all and 60% had muscle pain. The skin rash considered classic for dermatomyositis was seen in 33 children at the time of diagnosis. Elevation of serum muscle enzymes, electromyographic abnormalities, and muscle biopsy evidence of acute myositis were of confirmatory diagnostic value. The course of the disease in this study group has reconfirmed the efficacy of adrenal corticosteroid treatment in conjunction with an individualized physical therapy program and consistent followup. Prognosis for life and minimal functional disability has been good. There have been 3 deaths recorded in this series, only one of which was certain in its relationship to dermatomyositis.