Update on the clinical management of juvenile dermatomyositis

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare, chronic autoimmune illness with primary features of symmetric, proximal muscle weakness and involvement of the skin with a number of identifiable rashes. Evidence to support treatment decisions is limited, given the paucity of clinical trials. Consensus based methods, informed by available data, play an important role in treatment recommendations. Areas covered: This review focuses on evidence and consensus opinion regarding therapeutic options in JDM and identifies gaps where future research is needed. Expert commentary: The combination of trial evidence (as limited as it is) and consensus opinion support standard initial management for children with JDM to consist of high-dose corticosteroids, either intravenous or oral, and methotrexate. Several other agents have preliminary support, either through clinical trials or case series for their use in patients who either fail to respond adequately, have severe disease or have contraindications to standard initial therapy. One of the important goals of management in JDM will be to reduce the corticosteroid exposure experienced by patients. To meet this goal, progress in a number of key areas is needed: increased international collaboration, advances in study design and increased translational research.