Current approach to the treatment of polymyositis and dermatomyositis

Although corticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment for the Inflammat ory myopathies, their use is complicated by many side effects. Other immuno suppressive agents, atone or in combination, are being increasingly used fo r patients with other severe disease or treatment-related complications. Pu lmonary disease remains a serious source of morbidity and mortality in myos itis patients. Cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, and tacrolimus are efficacio us in patients with interstitial lung disease, Intravenous immunoglobulin i s not only effective for the cutaneous complications of dermatomyositis but has been helpful in other extramuscular manifestations. (C) 2000 Lippincot t Williams & Wilkins, Inc.