Postpartum onset anti-MDA5 antibody-positive clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis; case-based review of perinatal onset anti-MDA5 antibody-positive dermatomyositis.

Abstract

Anti-melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5) antibody positive clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM) is a subtype of inflammatory myopathy associated with a distinct clinical phenotype, characterized by rapidly progressing interstitial lung disease and limited muscle involvement. Although cases with onset of anti-MDA5 antibody positive CADM during pregnancy or the postpartum period are rare, they present unique challenges due to a potential pregnancy complications and the possible severity of the disease course. We present a case of anti-MDA5 antibody positive CADM that developed during the postpartum period following childbirth without any pregnancy complication. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive review of case reports and series of similar cases to elucidate the clinical characteristics and outcomes. Our analysis revealed considerable variability in disease presentation, ranging from severe cases requiring multi-targeted therapy to well-controlled cases with less demanding treatments. The scarcity of evidence in this population underscores the importance of accumulating evidence from case series to inform treatment strategies. More precise prediction tools are needed to effectively manage this rare subset of patients.