The association of malignancy with myositis.

The exact nature of the relation between malignancy and myositis has created continued controversy. Most of the evidence points toward an association between dermatomyositis (DM) with malignancy. The relation with polymyositis is much weaker, if at all present. The first 5 years after DM diagnosis is when the risk is greatest for malignancy. Although types of malignancy seen in DM and polymyositis are similar to those in the general population, ovarian cancer seems to be more common in DM. Most experts recommend that otherwise asymptomatic patients with DM have an age-specific examination for occult malignancy. All suggestive symptoms or clinical clues should be evaluated thoroughly.