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Polymyositis-dermatomyositis and malignant lesions: does an association exist?
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|August 1, 1986
Summary
This study found no statistically significant link between polymyositis-dermatomyositis and cancer. While some patients had cancer, the association is likely due to referral bias, not a direct relationship.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Polymyositis-dermatomyositis is an idiopathic inflammatory myopathy.
- A potential association with malignancy has been suggested but remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between polymyositis-dermatomyositis and malignant lesions.
- To determine if cancer screening is warranted in polymyositis-dermatomyositis patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study comparing polymyositis-dermatomyositis patients (1965-1974) with matched controls.
- Analysis of cancer diagnosis rates and clinical characteristics.
Main Results:
- Cancer prevalence was 25% in polymyositis-dermatomyositis patients versus 17% in controls (P=0.14).
- The slight excess of cancer was attributed to referral bias, particularly in distant referrals.
- No clinical differences were observed between polymyositis-dermatomyositis patients with or without cancer.
Conclusions:
- A clinically significant association between polymyositis-dermatomyositis and malignancy is unlikely.
- Intensive screening for occult malignancies in these patients may not be cost-effective.
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