Dermatomyositis: Understand the Diseases that Killed the Dangal Girl Suhani Bhatnagar

The news of Suhani Bhatnagar’s unexpected passing has deeply saddened the nation. At just 19 years old, she passed away at AIIMS in Delhi.

Speaking to the media, Suhani’s father, Puneet Bhatnagar, shared that she had been battling an autoimmune disease called dermatomyositis. About two months ago, Suhani developed swelling in her hands. Despite multiple checkups, the disease remained undiagnosed until she was admitted to AIIMS.

Suhani contracted an infection during her hospital stay. “The primary course of treatment for this condition involves steroid therapy. However, the administration of steroids compromised her immune system, rendering her vulnerable to infections,” he said. Sadly, her health deteriorated, causing damage to her lungs and respiratory system.

This news not only shocked family and friends but it came as a shocker to her fans in the entire nation. The untimely passing of Suhani Bhatnagar has left a void in the hearts of many, as her promising future and vibrant spirit are remembered with fondness and admiration.

 Suhani Bhatnagar was an inspiration to everyone who knew her and will be remembered for her kindness and generosity. She has left a void in the hearts of many, as her promising future. Her memory will live on through her loved ones.

Know More About Suhani Bhatnagar?

Suhani Bhatnagar was an Indian actor who died on 17th February 2024 in Delhi. She was an artist who worked in Bollywood movies. She was born on 14 June 2004 in Faridabad, Haryana, India. At the time of her death, she was only 19 years old and pursuing a course in Mass Communication and Journalism. Suhani Bhatnagar rose to stardom after playing the role of young Babita Phogat in Aamir Khan starrer Dangal.  She was selected for the role after an audition of 1,000 aspirants. Pooja Bhatnagar is her mother and Puneet Bhatnagar is her father.

A wave of shock spread all over the nation on her sudden demise. Many Bollywood actors and eminent personalities expressed their condolence. Aamir Khan’s production house wrote on her death, “We are deeply saddened to hear about our Suhani passing away. Our heartfelt condolences to her mother Poojaji, and the entire family. Such a talented young girl, such a team player, Dangal would have been incomplete without Suhani.” The note ended with, “Suhani, you will always remain a star in our hearts May you rest in peace (sic).”

But her death has left question many questions unanswered. People are asking about what kind of the disease dermatomyositis is. Why this has not been cured?  In the below article, we have tried to answer the questions that people are asking.

What is dermatomyositis?

Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory disease. It affects muscles and skin. Symptoms include muscle weakness, swelling, and skin rash. The cause is not fully understood. ‘There’s no cure for dermatomyositis, treatment involves medication and physical therapy. Treatment may help clear up skin rashes and help the patient regain muscular strength and function. It can affect people of any age, but it’s most common in children and adults in their 50s or 60s. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

What is the main cause of dermatomyositis?

The main cause of dermatomyositis is unknown. It’s believed to be an autoimmune disorder.  Specialists have expressed that viral infection of the muscles or a problem with the body’s immune system may be the cause behind the disease. This means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues. It may occur in people who have cancer in the abdomen, lung, or other parts of the body or attack by certain viruses.

Genetic and environmental factors may play a role. However, the exact cause remains unclear.

What is the common treatment for dermatomyositis?

The common treatment for dermatomyositis involves medication and physical therapy. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are prescribed to reduce inflammation. Few immunosuppressant drugs are used to subdue the immune system. The two most common medicines that are frequently advised for dermatomyositis are azathioprine (Azasan, Imuran) and methotrexate (Trexall). The other well-known medicine is Mycophenolate mofetil (Cellcept) which is used to treat dermatomyositis, mainly prescribed when the lungs are affected.

Other medications like antimalarials or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) may also be used. Physical therapy is done to maintain muscle strength and mobility Since the disease is not curable the objective of the treatment is to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.

 (Disclaimer: The above-written medicines are for educational purposes only; consult a specialist doctor for treatment)

Is dermatomyositis curable?

There is no cure for dermatomyositis, but you can manage it by treating the symptoms. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, preventing complications, and improving the quality of life.   Treatment includes medication, physical therapy, exercise, heat therapy, and rest. In medications, some corticosteroids, immunosuppressant drugs, and topical ointments are advised.

However, the condition may require ongoing management and monitoring. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for better outcomes. After about five years, dermatomyositis may subside, or become dormant, but often, the condition remains chronic.

What organs are affected by dermatomyositis?

Dermatomyositis primarily affects the muscles and skin at the shoulders, upper arms, hips, thighs, and neck by weakening them. However, it can also involve other organs. Internal organs such as the lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal tract may be affected in some cases. Disease can cause joint pain, and swelling in the heart, lung muscle tissues, and blood vessels to other organs. Lung involvement can lead to breathing difficulties, while heart involvement may cause inflammation of the heart muscle. Gastrointestinal symptoms can include difficulty swallowing or abdominal pain. These organ complications may vary in severity among individuals with dermatomyositis. 

Can you live a full life with dermatomyositis?

Once dermatomyositis disease is diagnosed, it affects the body for the rest of your life. The disease primarily affects the muscles and skin. If it damages your muscles badly enough you might lose the ability to move or use a part of your body the way you used to. However, it can also involve other organs. Internal organs such as the lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal tract may be affected in some cases. Lung involvement can lead to breathing difficulties, while heart involvement may cause inflammation of the heart muscle. Gastrointestinal symptoms can include difficulty swallowing or abdominal pain. It takes about a year for somebody to experience all the symptoms. These organ complications may vary in severity among individuals with dermatomyositis.

What are the symptoms of Dermatomyositis?

Symptoms of dermatomyositis include the following:

• The muscles become weak, especially in the hips, thighs, shoulders, and upper arms
• Specific skin rashes on the face, elbows, knees or chest
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Speaking
• Joint pain
• Shortness of breath
• Inflammation of internal organs

Symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go over time. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications.