Rash and weakness - A case of juvenile dermatomyositis

ABSTRACT

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a well-known but uncommon paediatric rheumatological condition. It can be missed early in the disease manifestation if not thought of in patients presenting with atypical rash and weakness. We present a case of a 5-year-old girl who developed JDM over a span of 8 weeks before a diagnosis was made. This case demonstrates the nuances of how a paediatric patient’s presentation can differ from adults’. A high index of suspicion and early appropriate referral to paediatric rheumatology are paramount for successful management and good prognosis of the condition.