Immunoglobulin - These agents are used to neutralize antibodies that may be associated with autoimmune diseases. IVIG has been used for treatment in patients who have refractory disease. Reports about its effectiveness are conflicting. Continuing clinical assessment and muscle enzyme abnormalities guide the duration of treatment. Significant morbidity is associated with these diseases, as is significant morbidity as a result of the drugs used in treatment.
Some deaths are due to malignancy, which is associated with dermatomyositis.
Survival is less likely for women and African Americans. Most patients improve with therapy. The immunopathologic and inflammatory differences between dermatomyositis, polymyositis and sporadic inclusion body myositis. Medicine is a constantly changing science and not all therapies are clearly established. New research changes drug and treatment therapies daily.