Overview
This is Gottron sign, seen in dermatomyositis (an inflammatory disease of the muscles and skin). Violet-colored inflammation over the knuckles is an important diagnostic finding in dermatomyositis, since other skin conditions produce more redness.
Review Date 1/10/2019
Updated by: Gordon A. Starkebaum, MD, MACR, ABIM Board Certified in Rheumatology, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.