MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Dermatomyositis on the legs

Medical Encyclopedia

Dermatomyositis on the legs

The appearance of purple (violaceous) plaques on the knees may be associated with dermatomyositis. Typically, most lesions associated with other diseases are red (erythematous).

Update Date: 12/24/2007

Updated by: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.; and Paul H. Plotz, MD, Chief, Arthritis and Rheumatism Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Previously reviewed by Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (4/12/2007).

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