SFDCT / Dow Settlement Medical Criteria

Polymyositis (PM) / Dermatomyositis (DM) - Option 2

A claim for polymyositis or dermatomyositis must include a diagnosis of the disease made by a Board-certified rheumatologist based upon personal examination of the patient. Supporting medical documentation must affirmatively reveal that the following criteria are present:

- for polymyositis, the first four (4) criteria without the rash;
- for dermatomyositis, three (3) of the first four (4) criteria, plus the rash (#5).

Criteria:

1. Symmetrical proximal muscle weakness;
2. EMG changes characteristic of myositis including:
   • Short duration, small, low-amplitude polyphasic potential,
   • Fibrillation potentials,
   • Bizarre high-frequency repetitive discharges;
3. Elevated serum muscle enzymes (CPK, aldolase, SGOT, SGPT, and LDH);
4. Muscle biopsy showing evidence of necrosis of type I and II muscle fibers areas of degeneration and regeneration of fibers, phagocytosis, and an interstitial or perivascular inflammatory response;
5. Dermatologic features including a lilac (heliotrope), erythematous, scaly involvement of the face, neck, shawl area and extensor surfaces of the knees, elbows and medial malleoli, and Gottron's papules.

• Compensation level: All confirmed PM/DM diagnosis will be compensated at the GCTS/PM/DM -- A Level