Diabetic Myonecrosis of the Axilla: A Novel Case With Severe Clinical Features

Kalvin Zee1, Michael Poplawski2, Jesse Coleman1

  • 1General Surgery, MercyOne Medical Center, Des Moines, USA.

Cureus
|October 30, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Diabetic myonecrosis is a rare complication of uncontrolled diabetes. This case highlights its atypical presentation in the latissimus dorsi muscle, emphasizing diagnostic challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Diabetic myonecrosis is a rare complication of long-standing, poorly controlled diabetes mellitus.
  • Pathophysiology may involve microvascular issues, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and coagulation-fibrinolysis dysregulation.

Observation:

  • A 58-year-old male with uncontrolled diabetes presented with diabetic ketoacidosis and shock.
  • Diabetic myonecrosis was incidentally found in the latissimus dorsi muscle via CT scan and surgical exploration.

Findings:

  • The case presented an atypical location (latissimus dorsi) for diabetic myonecrosis.
  • This condition can mimic other serious conditions, potentially leading to delayed or incorrect management.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering diabetic myonecrosis in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, even with atypical symptoms.
  • Underscores the need for further research into the pathophysiology and diagnostic criteria for this rare complication.

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