A seven-year-old girl had been suffering from violaceous heliotrope discoloration around the periorbital region and cheeks of the face, and progressive weakness of the legs for six weeks. After a series of studies, including measurement of muscle enzymes in serum, electromyography, and muscle biopsy from weak muscles, the final diagnosis was juvenile dermatomyositis. Her symptoms improved following prednisolone theroapy for 2 weeks. In conclusion, a child who develops the symptoms of maculo-papular rash, proximal muscle weakness, and fatigue should seek medical care promptly. With advances in physical and medical therapy, many of the consequences of the disease can now be ameliorated.