A Rare Case of Anti-TIF-1γ Antibody Positive Dermatomyositis in Adulthood.

Dermatomyositis (DM) presents with inflammatory myopathy and distinct skin manifestations, often linked to specific autoantibodies. Anti-transcriptional intermediary factor-1 gamma (TIF-1γ) antibodies (Abs) are typically linked to DM in older patients and malignancy in 15% to 40% of cases. We highlight a case of a 24-year-old female who presented with weakness of proximal muscles, periorbital edema, heliotrope rash, erosions on oral mucosa, and painful scaly rash on the lower extremities. Transcriptional intermediary factor-1 gamma Abs were positive, confirming inflammatory myopathy. Treatment with steroid pulse therapy and immunoglobulin led to improvement. Evaluation for malignancy yielded unremarkable results. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing DM with TIF-1γ Ab positive, even in atypical demographics, and highlights the need for comprehensive malignancy evaluation.

Lung infection or inflammation-a puzzling case of MDA-5 associated juvenile dermatomyositis.

BACKGROUND: Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is an uncommon inflammatory myopathy predominantly affecting children under 18 years of age. Diagnosis relies on identifying specific clinical features, such as muscle weakness, skin rash, elevated muscle enzymes, and MRI and muscle biopsy findings. Autoantibodies associated with inflammatory myopathy offer valuable prognostic insights and can indicate the risk of internal organ involvement, though they are relatively rare in childhood myopathies. JDM can progress to interstitial lung disease (ILD) if associated with MDA5 antibodies, and immunosuppressive therapy constitutes the primary treatment approach. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a unique case of JDM complicated by disseminated histoplasmosis in a 12-year-old African American male cross-country runner with no prior medical history. He presented with unintentional weight loss and a rash on his hands, genitals, and fingertips, which persisted despite previous treatments. Diagnosis of JDM was confirmed through clinical and laboratory evaluations. Over time, the patient developed recurrent fevers, thrombocytopenia, and signs of ILD, leading to the identification of disseminated histoplasmosis as a complicating factor. Appropriate antifungal treatment resolved the infectious condition, while continued immunosuppression aided in managing JDM and ILD. CONCLUSIONS: Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) remains a rare and intricate autoimmune disorder affecting young individuals. The presence of MDA5 antibodies in JDM patients can lead to severe complications like ILD, necessitating vigilant monitoring. Management includes immunosuppressive therapy, with glucocorticoids and mycophenolate mofetil proving effective, particularly in Clinically Amyopathic Dermatomyositis (CADM) cases. In cases of refractory disease, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) plays a crucial role, offering a safe and beneficial adjunct to treatment. We emphasize the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of JDM, as it can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Our case highlights the complexities of managing dual lung pathology, where a secondary infection exacerbated lung nodules and thrombocytopenia, while ILD was a consequence of atypical myopathy. Combining antifungal treatment with immunosuppression effectively managed both conditions and follow-up evaluations demonstrated improvement in ILD. Awareness of potential fungal infections in immunosuppressed JDM patients is crucial for successful treatment and patient outcomes.

Beyond the Acne.

Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis (SAPHO) is a relatively rare and often underdiagnosed disorder characterized by chronic inflammation affecting the bones, joints, and skin. While the precise cause of SAPHO syndrome remains elusive, multiple factors such as genetics, immunological dysregulation, and bacterial influences have been implicated in its pathogenesis. One notable aspect of SAPHO syndrome is the wide variability of symptoms experienced by afflicted individuals. A diverse array of osteoarticular manifestations may be observed, with common sites of involvement including the anterior chest wall, sacroiliac joints, and peripheral joints. Concurrently, patients often present with various skin disorders, such as palmoplantar pustulosis or acne, further adding to the complexity of the syndrome's clinical presentation. Treatment strategies for SAPHO syndrome primarily focus on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, methotrexate (MTX), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors are considered to modulate the immune response and provide relief. One of the challenges encountered in diagnosing SAPHO syndrome is its potential overlap with other related conditions, leading to diagnostic confusion and difficulties. Distinguishing SAPHO syndrome from similar entities can be complex, requiring a comprehensive evaluation of clinical features, imaging studies, and laboratory investigations. We would like to share an intriguing case involving a 28-year-old woman who arrived with perplexing symptoms of pain in her bilateral hands and feet, her lower back, and acne in the bilateral upper arms and thighs. Through a comprehensive workup, the underlying SAPHO syndrome was uncovered, and it was effectively managed using adalimumab.

Maternal morbidity and associated factors at a tertiary care Centre in Karachi: A critical analysis.

AIM: The study was conducted to identify maternal morbidity and associated factors such intensive care unit admission and surgical intervention. METHODS: Pregnant and six-week post-partum women without any other comorbidy were recruited from January 2014 to December 2015 from the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi. A structurally designed questionnaire was used to record demographic data and factors related to the management and intervention of maternal conclusions. RESULTS: A total of 213 patients were included in the study, with an average age of 27.87 ± 5.26 years, mean parity of 2.02 ± 1.88 and mean gestational period of 32.48 ± 7.93. The details of 186 neonatal cases were also recorded: 47 neonates were admitted to the intensive care unit, while 23 were kept on ventilation. The primary complication was post-partum hemorrhage. The most common intervention methods used was lower segment cesarean section. CONCLUSION: The concept of maternal morbidity is developing as a new indicator for the assessment of maternal healthcare services. Public health awareness programs should be conducted for health professionals to combat the high incidence of maternal morbidity.