Suhani Bhatnagar, the actress who played the younger version of Babita Phogat in the movie ‘Dangal,’ tragically passed away last week, at the tender age of ‘19.’ Her father has now revealed that she was diagnosed with dermatomyositis, for which she was admitted in the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
As a complication of the disease, fluid had started accumulating in her lungs, which eventually became Bhatnagar’s cause of death. To learn more about this rare condition, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics.
Dermatomyositis Explained
Dr Kapoor defined dermatomyositis as a rare autoimmune disease that primarily affects the skin and muscles. “It is classified as an inflammatory myopathy, belonging to a group of disorders that are characterised by inflammation and weakness of the muscles,” she added.
Dr Kapoor shared that dermatomyositis can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 40-60 and children between 5-15. The yearly incidence of this rare disorder is 1 in 1 lakh people. According to an overview provided by the New York Medical College, ‘the mortality rate of dermatomyositis is estimated to be 10% and is especially high in the first year of the disease.’
Dermatomyositis Causes
“The exact cause of dermatomyositis is not well understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors,” said Dr Kapoor. He shared that it is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. “In dermatomyositis, the skin and muscles are the main targets of this immune response,” he added.
Dermatomyositis Symptoms
Talking about the symptoms of this autoimmune inflammatory condition, Dr Kapoor listed:
Skin Changes
- Rash: One of the hallmark features is a distinctive skin rash, often referred to as a heliotrope rash, which appears on the eyelids and around the eyes.
- Gottron's Papules: Raised, scaly patches over the knuckles and finger joints.
- Shawl Sign: Reddish or purplish discolouration over the upper back and shoulders.
Muscle Weakness
- Proximal muscle weakness that affects muscles close to the trunk, such as those in the hips, thighs, shoulders, and upper arms.
- Difficulties in activities like standing from a seated position, lifting objects, or climbing stairs.
Systemic Symptoms
- Fatigue and malaise.
- Joint pain and swelling.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) in some cases.
Dermatomyositis Complications
Dr Kapoor shared that if dermatomyositis is not kept in check, it can lead to the following complications:
- Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Inflammation of the lung tissue, which can lead to breathing difficulties.
- Calcifications: Abnormal calcium deposits in the soft tissues, particularly in areas of chronic inflammation.
- Cardiovascular Complications: Increased risk of heart-related issues.
- Malignancy: There is a higher risk of certain cancers in individuals with dermatomyositis.
- Muscle Atrophy: Persistent muscle inflammation can lead to irreversible muscle damage and atrophy.
Dermatomyositis Treatment
“Managing dermatomyositis involves a multidisciplinary approach,” said Dr Kapoor. He listed the following treatment modalities:
- Medications: Corticosteroids can be prescribed to suppress the immune response and reduce inflammation. Immunosuppressant drugs like methotrexate or azathioprine can also be prescribed, and in severe cases, experts also recommend biologics or monoclonal antibodies.
- Physical Therapy: Customised exercise programs to maintain muscle strength and function may prove beneficial against dermatomyositis. Occupational therapy for activities of daily living can also be helpful
- Topical Treatments: Skin-directed therapies can help manage skin symptoms, including topical corticosteroids and antimalarial drugs.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen and protective clothing should be worn by the patients of dermatomyositis to minimise skin damage.
The news of Suhani Bhatnagar’s passing is extremely tragic and incites a need for heightened awareness, no matter how rare the disease. Dr Kapoor shared that early diagnosis and prompt intervention are crucial for managing dermatomyositis effectively. Regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals, including rheumatologists and dermatologists, are essential to monitor symptoms, adjust treatment plans, and address potential complications.