Amyopathic dermatomyositis.
Amyopathic dermatomyositis (ADM) is a rare condition characterized by skin lesions suggestive of dermatomyositis (DM) without detectable muscle abnormalities after at least 2 years of follow-up. Pulmonary fibrosis is uncommon in patients with ADM.


METHODS
A 64-year-old woman presented with a 2 years and 6 months history of nondestructive polyarthritis. She had skin changes suggestive of DM, including a pink rash over the face, neck, and forearms; Gottron's papules over the metacarpophalangeal joints; and heliotrope edema of the eyelids. She reported no muscle symptoms. Findings were normal from muscle enzyme assays, electromyography, and muscle biopsies. A diagnosis of ADM was given. Early lung fibrosis was found. Investigations for a tumor were negative.


CONCLUSIONS
ADM is a rare condition that may be an abortive form of DM with a favorable outcome and a lower risk of malignancy compared to classic DM. However, the development of pulmonary fibrosis may cloud the prognosis.
Saoud
Bouchra
B
Rheumatology B Department, El Ayachi Hospital, Rabat-Salé Teaching Hospitals, Morocco.
Allali
Fadoua
F
Hassouni
Najia Hajjaj
NH
D003882:Dermatomyositis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D004576:Electromyography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009135:Muscular Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D011379:Prognosis; D011658:Pulmonary Fibrosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome