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Diseases » Dermatomyositis » Causes
 

Causes of Dermatomyositis

List of causes of Dermatomyositis

Following is a list of causes or underlying conditions (see also Misdiagnosis of underlying causes of Dermatomyositis) that could possibly cause Dermatomyositis includes:

  • Certain cancers

Dermatomyositis Causes: Book Excerpts

Dermatomyositis as a complication of other conditions:

Other conditions that might have Dermatomyositis as a complication may, potentially, be an underlying cause of Dermatomyositis. Our database lists the following as having Dermatomyositis as a complication of that condition:

Dermatomyositis as a symptom:

Conditions listing Dermatomyositis as a symptom may also be potential underlying causes of Dermatomyositis. Our database lists the following as having Dermatomyositis as a symptom of that condition:

What triggers Dermatomyositis?

The following conditions are listed as possible triggers for Dermatomyositis:

Related information on causes of Dermatomyositis:

As with all medical conditions, there may be many causal factors. Further relevant information on causes of Dermatomyositis may be found in:

Causes of Dermatomyositis: Online Medical Books

16 MEDICAL BOOKS ONLINE! Review excerpts from medical books online, free, without registration, for more information about the causes of Dermatomyositis.

Atopic dermatitis: Causes
(Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition))

The cause of atopic dermatitis is still unknown. However, several theories attempt to explain its pathogenesis. One theory suggests an underlying metabolically or biochemically induced skin disorder that’s genetically linked to elevated serum immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels. Another theory suggests defective T-cell function.

Exacerbating factors of atopic dermatitis include irritants, infections (commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus), and some allergens. Although no reliable link exists between atopic dermatitis and exposure to inhalant allergens (such as house dust and animal dander), exposure to food allergens (such as soybeans, fish, or nuts) may coincide with flare-ups of atopic dermatitis.

» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

Source: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), 2005

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis: Causes and incidence
(Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition))

Although the cause of polymyositis remains puzzling, researchers believe that it may result from an autoimmune reaction. Presumably, the patient’s T cells inappropriately recognize muscle fiber antigens as foreign and attack muscle tissue, causing diffuse or focal muscle fiber degeneration. (Regeneration of new muscle cells then follows, producing remission.) Polymyositis and dermatomyositis may be associated with other disorders, such as allergic reactions; systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); scleroderma; rheumatoid arthritis; Sjögren’s syndrome; carcinomas of the lung, breast, or other organs; systemic viral infection; or d-penicillamine administration.

Annual incidence is 1 in 100,000 people.

» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

Source: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), 2005

Dermatomyositis/Polymyositis: Dermatomyositis/Polymyositis - etiology
(The 5-Minute Pediatric Consult)

  • Unknown
  • Several potential mechanisms include:
    • Abnormal cell-mediated immunity
    • Immune-complex formation
    • Immunodeficiency
    • Infection
    • Microchimerism

» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

Source: The 5-Minute Pediatric Consult, 2008


 » Next page: Symptoms of Dermatomyositis

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