The Singapore Family Physician
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Vol 43 No. 3 - Managing Complex Patients in Family Medicine Settings
Rash and Weakness – A Case of Juvenile Dermatomyositis
The Singapore Family Physician
Vol 43
No 3
- Managing Complex Patients in Family Medicine Settings
55
- 60
1 July 2017
0377-5305
Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a well-known but uncommon paediatric rheumatological condition. It can be missed early in the disease manifestation if not thought of in patients presenting with atypical rash and weakness. We present a case of a 5-year-old girl who developed JDM over a span of 8 weeks before a diagnosis was made. This case demonstrates the nuances of how a paediatric patient’s presentation can differ from adults’. A high index of suspicion and early appropriate referral to paediatric rheumatology are paramount for successful management and good prognosis of the condition.