Immunopathologic Aspects of Dermatomyositis and Implication on its Treatment

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune disorder primarily impacting the skin and skeletal musculature. It is classified under one group of autoimmune diseases termed idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM). Various immunogenic pathways and mechanisms have been discovered in DM, involving autoantibodies, B cells, T cells, interferon, and complement. These mechanisms and pathways are being targeted by various pharmacological agents, such as glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants (steroid-sparing agents), and some newer treatments targeting autoantigens, immune cells, and various molecular effectors. This review is to provide new developments about the immunopathological facets and their management in adult dermatomyositis.