[Juvenile dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disease]

This paper covers the current insights into the classification, etiology, management and prognosis of juvenile dermatomyositis (JDMS) systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). Since specific diagnostic tests for these autoimmune diseases are not available, diagnosis depends on the presence of defined criteria. Drug therapy in JDMS consists of prednisone at a low dosage (1 mg/kg/day). In SLE different therapeutic approaches are known depending on the occurrence of life threatening symptoms. The prognosis of MCTD is good, it is of prime importance to avoid overdosage of corticosteroids, since drug treatment is often not needed.