Dermatomyositis: IVIG Treatment for Muscle and Skin Inflammation
Dermatomyositis attacks both the skin and the muscles at once. IVIG is one of the few therapies with strong evidence behind it for this rare autoimmune condition.
What is dermatomyositis?
Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory autoimmune condition that causes muscle weakness along with a distinctive skin rash, often appearing as a purplish discoloration on the eyelids or a reddish rash over the knuckles, elbows, and knees. It can affect both adults and children.
Muscle weakness typically develops gradually, most noticeably in the muscles closest to the trunk of the body, making everyday tasks like climbing stairs or lifting the arms overhead increasingly difficult.
How infusion therapy helps
IVIG is one of the best-studied treatments for dermatomyositis, with clinical trial evidence supporting its use, particularly for patients whose disease hasn't responded well enough to steroids or other immune-suppressing medications alone.
IVIG works by modulating immune activity broadly, and for dermatomyositis it can improve both the muscle weakness and the skin symptoms, typically given on a monthly infusion schedule.
Managing dermatomyositis?
Our physician-led team coordinates IVIG therapy with your rheumatologist or neurologist.
Call (551) 336-5580This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Treatment decisions should always be made with your physician based on your individual diagnosis and health history.