Ulcerative Heliotrope Rash in Antimelanoma Differentiation-Associated Gene 5 Dermatomyositis

Cutis. 2021 May;107(5):E5-E8. doi: 10.12788/cutis.0260.

Abstract

Antimelanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 dermatomyositis (anti-MDA5 DM) is an amyopathic subtype of DM that presents with the classic cutaneous findings of DM, such as a heliotrope rash, Gottron papules, and the shawl sign, combined with mucocutaneous ulcerations. This subtype of DM also is highly associated with rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (ILD). We report 2 cases of a heretofore novel presentation of the overlap of these cutaneous features in the form of an ulcerative heliotrope rash; furthermore, the rash was associated with progression of ILD in both cases. Finally, we review the current state of clinical care and research related to anti-MDA5 DM in terms of clinical presentations, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoantibodies
  • Dermatomyositis* / diagnosis
  • Dermatomyositis* / drug therapy
  • Exanthema* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Skin

Substances

  • Autoantibodies