Statin-induced dermatomyositis for the practicing dermatologist: a review of the literature

Abstract

Statins cause a spectrum of muscle-related adverse events, including autoimmune myopathies such as dermatomyositis (DM). This review aims to describe the events of statin-induced DM and amyopathic dermatomyositis (ADM) to increase awareness for practicing dermatologists about harmful interactions with the most commonly prescribed lipid-lowering medication. PubMed was searched for relevant literature related to statin-induced DM and ADM. Numerous cases of statin-induced DM have been reported in individuals with no history of DM or other autoimmune conditions. Statins also cause ADM, although this is a rare association. Because of the widespread use of statins worldwide for atherosclerotic disease prevention, it may be of benefit to practicing dermatologists and all clinicians to assess for a history of DM when prescribing statins and inquire if patients with a DM-like presentation are taking or have taken a statin medication.