• Patients with dermatomyositis typically see a dermatology provider for their symptoms prior to any other healthcare provider.
  • 20 percent of people with dermatomyositis do not have muscle disease.
  • Dermatomyositis is a high stakes diagnosis, as it is associated with cancer and interstitial lung disease. Risk of malignancy is highest in the first 3 years after dermatomyositis symptoms begin.
  • If ulcerations occur over Gottron's papules, have high suspicion for lung disease.