Differential Diagnosis for Autoimmune Disease Causing Rhabdomyolysis

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Dermatomyositis: This is a condition characterized by inflammation of the muscles and the skin. It is known to cause rhabdomyolysis, which is a serious syndrome due to direct or indirect muscle injury. It leads to the death of muscle fibers and the release of their contents into the bloodstream, causing various complications.

• Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Polymyositis: Similar to dermatomyositis, polymyositis is an inflammatory muscle disease that can lead to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, rhabdomyolysis. The absence of skin involvement distinguishes it from dermatomyositis.
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs. It can cause inflammation in the muscles, potentially leading to rhabdomyolysis.
  • Sjögren's Syndrome: Although primarily known for causing dry eyes and dry mouth, Sjögren's syndrome can also lead to systemic manifestations, including muscle inflammation and potentially rhabdomyolysis.

• Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Guillain-Barré Syndrome: This is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system, which can lead to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, rhabdomyolysis. Early recognition is crucial for treatment.
  • Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD): MCTD combines features of lupus, scleroderma, and polymyositis. It can cause muscle inflammation and potentially lead to rhabdomyolysis. The diverse presentation of MCTD makes it a diagnosis that should not be overlooked.

• Rare Diagnoses

  • Eosinophilic Myositis: A rare condition characterized by muscle inflammation associated with eosinophilia, which can lead to rhabdomyolysis.
  • Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM): The most common acquired myopathy in adults older than 50 years, IBM can cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting. While less commonly associated with rhabdomyolysis compared to other myopathies, it remains a consideration in the differential diagnosis due to its potential for severe muscle involvement.
  • Necrotizing Autoimmune Myopathy (NAM): A rare autoimmune myopathy characterized by necrotic muscle fibers without significant inflammation. It can cause severe muscle weakness and rhabdomyolysis.