Dermatomyositis: a debilitating paraneoplastic phenomenon following a diagnosis of localised squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

This case report describes the management of a patient, recently diagnosed with Stage IIIC cervical cancer, presenting with significant proximal muscle weakness, dysphagia and cutaneous changes over the hands, knees and outer thighs bilaterally. Following multiple investigations, this clinical presentation was proven to be dermatomyositis as a paraneoplastic phenomenon, a rare diagnosis with cervical cancer. Improvement of the presenting symptoms followed commencement of radical chemoradiation to the primary tumour plus administration of high dose steroids and intravenous immunoglobulins. As demonstrated in this case, and accompanying literature review, dermatomyositis is a rare complication of cervical cancer but should be considered as urgent treatment of the underlying malignancy is imperative. Involving members of the multidisciplinary team, including dieticians and physiotherapists, is of utmost importance to optimise the patient’s recovery from such a debilitating diagnosis.