Statin-induced autoimmune myopathy: a case report.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Immunology

Background:

• Statins are primary treatments for hypercholesterolemia.
• Statin-associated myopathy, including muscle weakness and elevated creatine kinase (CK), affects approximately 15% of users.
• Risk factors include polypharmacy, advanced age, and female sex, though the exact mechanism remains elusive.

Observation:

• While most statin-induced myopathies resolve upon discontinuation, a subset presents as autoimmune myopathy.
• This autoimmune form is characterized by persistent muscle weakness and elevated CK levels even after statin cessation.

Findings:

• This case report details an autoimmune myopathy linked to statin exposure.
• The patient's condition demonstrated responsiveness to immunosuppressive drug treatment.

Implications:

• The increasing prevalence of statin use necessitates greater clinical awareness of this persistent autoimmune myopathy.
• Early recognition and appropriate immunosuppressive treatment are crucial for managing this statin-related adverse effect.