An update in the diagnosis and management of juvenile dermatomyositis

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) represent a group of autoimmune muscle conditions with variable organ involvement amongst the different types [1]. Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is the most prevalent subgroup among children (accounting for up to 85% of cases), while polymyositis, inclusion body myositis and dermatomyositis are most common in adults [2]. JDM is primarily a capillary vasculopathy affecting the muscles and skin, but involvement of multiple organ systems have been reported. The course of JDM is variable. Approximately one-third of patients have a monocyclic disease course. This review will focus on classification and treatment of JDM.