A case of postpartum dermatomyositis with onset at three months: expanding the clinical spectrum

• Published in: Annals of medicine and surgery 2024-11, Vol.86 (11), p.6748-6752
• Main Authors: Shah, Sandesh, Shrestha, Garima, Raut, Ujwal, Vaidya, Monasha, Thapaliya, Ritesh, Maharjan, Radhika
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Case Reports
• ISSN: 2049-0801; 2049-0801
• DOI: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000002506

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune disorder affecting all age groups, with a higher prevalence in women. Diagnosis typically occurs around age 40. Manifestation can be acute or chronic. Diagnosis relies on clinical, laboratory, electromyography, and histopathological tests. Limited information exists regarding DM's occurrence during pregnancy and its connection to pregnancy. A 31-year-old, 3-month postpartum female presented with features of proximal muscle weakness and generalized erythematous itchy rash. The weakness was associated with muscle tenderness. Laboratory evaluation and skin biopsy revealed features consistent with dermatomyositis. Pulmonary pathology and occult tumors were investigated. Symptoms gradually improved on steroids and azathioprine. The relationship between dermatomyositis and pregnancy remains poorly understood, with only a few documented cases highlighting the impact of pregnancy on the development and progression of the disease. From the available literature, it is evident that postpartum dermatomyositis is uncommon yet significant, necessitating careful attention during pregnancy to enhance outcomes for both the mother and the unborn child. Our experience highlights a rare case of postpartum dermatomyositis, with symptoms emerging 3 months after childbirth, differing from documented cases. More research is needed to understand pregnancy's role in dermatomyositis development and improve treatment for pregnant women with autoimmune skin diseases.