Statin Induced Immune Mediated Necrotizing Myopathy: More Than Just Sore Muscles

Statin drugs are commonly used to decrease levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. Common side effects of this medication class are generally mild and include headache, nausea, diarrhea, and myalgia. Rarely, statins have been associated with autoimmune disease resulting in a potentially serious inflammatory myopathy known as statininduced immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM). Here, we describe a case of statin-induced IMNM in a 66-year-old man placed on atorvastatin several months prior to CABG surgery. We review the relevant laboratory results, imaging, immunologic, histopathologic findings and treatment strategy of this important disorder.