Rare Features of Dermatomyositis in a Patient with Ovarian Cancer

Despite having a classic presentation of dermatomyositis, a patient with ovarian cancer demonstrated several uncommon features: (i) unexpected onset of dermatomyositis in spite of cancer remission, (ii) development of Evans' syndrome and subcutaneous oedema, and (iii) dysphagia. We discuss the occurrence of these conditions as well as their treatment.

This case illustrates a mode of onset of dermatomyositis that could challenge its classification as a 'paraneoplastic' syndrome, as the dermatomyositis appeared when the patient was in complete metabolic remission.This case also raises questions about the observed relationship between IVIG administration and the onset of subcutaneous oedema and Evans' syndrome.