Related Experiment Videos
Spontaneous abdominal hematoma in dermatomyositis
R W Orrell1, H M Johnston, C Gibson
1Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, New York 14642, USA.
Muscle & Nerve
|December 8, 1998
Summary
Dermatomyositis patients can experience spontaneous abdominal bleeding, causing acute pain. Early diagnosis through imaging and supportive care can help avoid surgery.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Dermatomyositis is a systemic autoimmune disease with diverse manifestations.
- Abdominal complications are rare but can be severe in dermatomyositis patients.
Observation:
- Two patients with dermatomyositis presented with acute abdominal pain.
- Both patients experienced spontaneous intra-abdominal hemorrhage.
Findings:
- Hemorrhage was diagnosed via physical examination in one case and CT scan in another.
- One patient had significant abdominal wall calcinosis, suggesting potential trauma as a precipitant.
- Both patients recovered fully with conservative management.
Implications:
- Spontaneous abdominal hematoma is a critical consideration in dermatomyositis patients with acute abdominal pain.
- Recognizing this complication may prevent unnecessary surgical intervention.
- Further research into the mechanisms of abdominal hemorrhage in dermatomyositis is warranted.