Rapidly progressing treatment resistant anti-TIF1 gamma antibody positive dermatomyositis

Abstract

Dermatomyositis is an idiopathic inflammatory myositis involving progressive muscle weakness with skin manifestations. Incidence of dermatomyositis is 1 per 100,000 in general population. Diagnosis is based on characteristic skin rashes, progressive muscle weakness and elevated muscle enzymes levels (creatine phosphokinase). The diagnosis is confirmed by clinical examination, abnormal electromyogram and autoimmune workup. In this case report, we report a case of difficult to treat dermatomyositis with proximal muscle weakness in an elderly male patient with classical skin lesions. The patient was resistant to steroid and immunoglobulin therapy.