NXP-2 Positive Dermatomyositis: A Unique Clinical Presentation
Dermatomyositis (DM), a myopathy associated with inflammation and muscle weakness, has historically been difficult to diagnose. Recently, nuclear matrix protein (NXP-2) antibodies have been described as a myositis-specific antibody that may aid in the diagnostic evaluation. We present the case of a...
| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Hindawi Limited
2017-01-01
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| Series: | Case Reports in Rheumatology |
| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2017/4817275 |
| Summary: | Dermatomyositis (DM), a myopathy associated with inflammation and muscle weakness, has historically been difficult to diagnose. Recently, nuclear matrix protein (NXP-2) antibodies have been described as a myositis-specific antibody that may aid in the diagnostic evaluation. We present the case of a 21-year-old, previously healthy, African American male with DM. He presented to our outpatient clinic with periorbital swelling and a rash, for which he was started on prednisone by an ophthalmologist. Towards the end of the prednisone taper, he began to experience muscle weakness, a worsening rash, and dysphagia to solids with a resultant loss of 60 pounds within a month. He was transferred to a tertiary care hospital where he was further evaluated and ultimately diagnosed with dermatomyositis, supported by skin and muscle biopsies, and was found to be positive for NXP-2. He was given intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and high-dose steroids with improvement. |
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| ISSN: | 2090-6889 2090-6897 |