Introduction

Letter from Maureen McGovern

Questions and Answers

The Immune System

Diagnosis and Treatment

MDA's Search for a Cause, Treatment and Cure

LETTER FROM MAUREEN McGOVERN

Dear Friends...

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis are not familiar terms to most people, but they are to me. I know firsthand how frightening it can be to face one of these conditions, because my niece, Carolyn, has dermatomyositis.

My family has received priceless reassurance and help from the Muscular Dystrophy Association. As chairperson of MDA's Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis Division, I know that MDA has brought the same hope to many other people with these disorders and to their families.

MDA has prepared this brochure to answer the questions patients and families ask most often about polymyositis and dermatomyositis. Within its pages, you'll learn about symptoms, causes, effects, treatments, ongoing research and much more. You'll also find out how MDA helps people affected by these two conditions through its range of services.

The expert services and personal attention that Carolyn has received at MDA clinics, along with the knowledge we've gained through MDA's educational programs, have made our future much brighter. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have polymyositis or dermatomyositis, you can count on MDA to give you the same support.

Sincerely,

Maureen McGovern

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