Management of polymyositis and dermatomyositis.

The overall prognosis for polymyositis and dermatomyositis has improved with the judicious use of corticosteroids, while azathioprine and other cytotoxic agents are of value in improving functional ability and decreasing the total steroid requirement. However, the duration of therapy and the relative risks of it must be under constant surveillance. Problems such as respiratory or cardiac failure in the course of the disease are of serious importance and require particular care in management . Finally, the possibility of neoplasm underlying the disease or occurring as a sequel to cytotoxic therapy should always be borne in mind.