University Of Virginia Health System

Dermatomyositis is swelling and redness of muscle and skin.The exact cause of dermatomyositis is not known. It may be an autoimmune disorder. The immune system identifies and attacks viruses and harmful bacteria in your body. If your child is suffering from muscle weakness and an unexplained rash, dermatomyositis could be the cause. Learn more about this disease and its symptoms from Dr. Aarat Patel, a UVA Children’s Hospital specialist.