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Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
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Dermatomyositis Masquerading As Generalized Body Swelling: A Case Report
Neethu Sunny1, Kritartha Kashyap2, Arjun Kumar2
1Geriatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, IND.
Cureus
|June 12, 2023
Summary
Dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease, can present with severe edema and dysphagia, even without typical skin rashes. Early recognition and aggressive treatment are crucial for managing this challenging presentation.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Dermatomyositis (DM) is a systemic autoimmune disease primarily affecting skin and muscles.
- Classic DM symptoms include a characteristic rash and muscle weakness.
- Generalized edema and dysphagia are uncommon presentations of DM.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old woman presented with generalized limb swelling, periorbital edema, and dysphagia.
- The patient lacked typical complaints of limb weakness, posing a diagnostic challenge.
- Diagnosis of DM was confirmed through clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings.
Findings:
- This case highlights a rare edematous presentation of dermatomyositis.
- Edematous DM is associated with malignancy in 25% of cases, necessitating screening.
- Subcutaneous edema can be the sole presenting sign of DM.
Implications:
- Recognizing DM in patients with generalized edema and dysphagia, especially without classic skin findings, is critical.
- This rare presentation may indicate a severe form of DM requiring prompt and aggressive treatment.
- Close follow-up and malignancy screening are essential for patients with edematous DM.
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