Epidemiology and mortality of dermatomyositis and polymyositis in Oklahoma 2010-2023

Dermatomyositis (DM) and polymyositis (PM) are autoimmune diseases characterised by muscle inflammation, presenting significant challenges in clinical management. Both diseases share common features, such as muscle involvement, but differ in clinical manifestations. This study aims to compare the epidemiologic characteristics and mortality rates of DM and PM among a population of Oklahoma patients.

Utilising data from the Clinical Research Data Warehouse (CRDW) at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), a retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine demographic patterns, prevalence, and mortality outcomes. A total of 321 patients diagnosed with DM or PM between 2010 and 2023 were included, with demographic factors such as age, race, sex, and living premises evaluated.

Logistic regression models identified significant associations between DM and women, although PM was more prevalent in African American individuals. Age at diagnosis was significantly associated with mortality. Although there were more deaths among individuals classified as DM, the difference in mortality was not significantly different between those with DM and those with PM.

The findings highlighted the importance of demographic factors in disease presentation and outcomes, underscoring the need for targeted healthcare strategies and further research into inflammatory myopathies.