Introduction
Inflammatory myopathy, myositis, refers to a category of uncommon
autoimmune disorders that entail chronic inflammation
and muscular weakness and
predominantly target the musculoskeletal system(1). The etiology of
inflammatory myopathy remains elusive; however, it is postulated that a
confluence of genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, and immune
response dysregulation may contribute to its manifestation(2, 3).
There are mainly 4 types of inflammatory myopathy: dermatomyositis (DM),
polymyositis (PM), overlap syndromes, and juvenile myositis(4).
The manifestation of DM is commonly observed through bilateral proximal
skeletal muscle weakness, which is frequently accompanied by distinctive
dermatological signs. A heliotrope flare-up localized on eyelids,
Gottron’s papules, and periungual telangiectasia are the most prominent
symptoms of DM(5). The Bohan and Peter criteria are frequently utilized
in the diagnosis of dermatomyositis, incorporating a range of clinical,
laboratory, electromyography, and muscle biopsy assessments(6).
PM is characterized by muscle inflammation without significant skin
involvement(7). Overlap syndromes are characterized by the manifestation
of features that are common to both inflammatory myopathy and an
overlapping autoimmune disease. Organ involvement associated with
systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and skin manifestations may be
observed in patients(8).
Juvenile myositis encompasses inflammatory myopathies that occur in
children. Juvenile myositis in children may demonstrate the same
clinical presentations as adults, however, they may also manifest
distinct characteristics, such as high skin involvement and a greater
incidence of calcinosis(9).
Although the etiology of most cases of inflammatory myopathy remains
unknown or is attributed to autoimmune factors, there have been limited
reports of inflammatory myopathy presenting as an initial indication of
an underlying tumor(10).