Paraneoplastic dermatomyositis in a patient with ovarian cancer: a case report
| Author |
|---|
Magilevičiūtė, Roberta |
| Date | Start Page | End Page |
|---|---|---|
2025-04-25 | 294 | 295 |
Abstract No. 187
Prieskyros nenurodytos
Dermatomyositis (DM) is a rare idiopathic inflammatory myopathy that primarily affects the skin and proximal skeletal muscles, often presenting with characteristic cutaneous findings, such as Gottron’s papules. While DM can occur on its own, it is increasingly recognized as a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with underlying malignancies. Ovarian carcinoma is one of the most frequently reported neoplasms, related with paraneoplastic DM. Dermatomyositis may be the first clinical sign of a malignancy, so these patients must be examined very carefully. Early recognition of this association is essential, as timely diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cancer can lead to
significant improvement or even complete resolution of DM symptoms. Case:A 51-year- old female presented with progressive weakness in the proximal muscles of her arms
and legs, accompanied by an itchy rash. During examination by a rheumatologist, Gottron's papules and décolleté erythema were observed. Paraneoplastic polymyositis was suspected secondary to an underlying malignancy, and the patient underwent a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen, pelvis and thorax. The imaging
revealed an ovarian tumour with metastases to the omentum, truncus coeliacus, para- aortic and cardio-diaphragmatic lymph nodes. The multidisciplinary team decided that
the patient required surgical treatment and cytoreductive surgery was performed. After histopathological examination of the resected tissues patient was diagnosed with stage IV, G3 serous carcinoma. After surgery, the patient was re-evaluated by the rheumatologist, who confirmed a systemic connective tissue disorder (paraneoplastic syndrome) associated with oncological disease. Treatment with prednisolone was started, along with adjuvant chemotherapy. The patient was closely monitored, and over time, muscle strength improved and the rash disappeared. Conclusion:This case represents that female patients with suspected dermatomyositis, need to be carefully evaluated to rule out an underlying malignancy. Early detection and a multidisciplinary treatment approach can significantly improve symptoms and overall outcomes.