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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.
Abstract:
Diabetic myonecrosis is a rare and poorly understood complication of long-standing, inadequately controlled diabetes mellitus. Theoretical mechanisms contributing to the pathophysiology of diabetic myonecrosis include microvascular complications due to advanced glycation end-products, ischemia-reperfusion injuries, and dysregulated coagulation-fibrinolysis activity. Case reports of diabetic myonecrosis most commonly describe diabetic patients with chronically poor glycemic control who experience isolated swelling and severe pain in a unilateral lower limb with no signs of infection or systemic toxicity. Due to the rarity of this condition, there are currently no treatment guidelines. This case describes a 58-year-old male with a history of uncontrolled diabetes who presented with diabetic ketoacidosis with mixed hypovolemic and septic shock. Diabetic myonecrosis was incidentally discovered in the patient's right latissimus dorsi with CT imaging and subsequent surgical exploration. Spontaneous diabetic myonecrosis may mimic several other serious conditions and elicit suboptimal management strategies, particularly in the context of atypical presentations.
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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