Recurrence of Statin-Induced Necrotizing Myopathy: A Learning Point

Cureus. 2024 Feb 9;16(2):e53945. doi: 10.7759/cureus.53945. eCollection 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Statin-induced myopathy remains a significant adverse event associated with statin use. Insufficient literature exists studying the recurrence of statin-induced myopathy in patients who have been re-exposed to statins. In this case report, we present the case of an elderly woman who developed immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy secondary to simvastatin and eventually improved with statin cessation and corticosteroids. Two years after her initial presentation, she re-developed myopathy when she was prescribed atorvastatin in the community. This case highlights the importance of recognizing that statin-induced myopathy is likely a class effect and being wary of re-prescribing statins in this vulnerable population group.

Keywords: statin intolerant patients; statin- induced myositis; statin-associated myopathy; statin-induced autoimmune necrotizing myopathy; statin-induced myopathy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports