Magnetic resonance imaging detection of occult skin and subcutaneous abnormalities in juvenile dermatomyositis: Implications for diagnosis and therapy

Abstract

Edema or inflammation in the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and fascia, found on STIR MRI, is common in juvenile DM patients and is often undetected by standard assessments. These MRI changes can precede the development of calcinosis. STIR MRI may be a useful adjunct for assessing disease activity and guiding the treatment of juvenile DM.