Atypical Presentation of Mixed Connective Tissue Disorder Involving Bilateral Diaphragm

Pulmonary manifestations can be present in 20-80% of patients having mixed connective tissue disorder (MCTD) and are usually subacute. MCTD when associated with polymyositis can rarely involve the diaphragm, causing respiratory failure. We present herein the case of a 49-year-old female having MCTD with a component of polymyositis who presented with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis followed by heart failure requiring respiratory support with non-invasive mechanical ventilation. We are aware of only one prior instance of MCTD associated with unilateral diaphragmatic weakness causing mild respiratory dysfunction. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second reported case of diaphragmatic involvement in the MCTD population, with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis causing severe respiratory failure. This is also the first reported case of such an unusual initial presentation in this patient group. Pulmonary involvement has a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis with the initiation of therapy can improve mortality outcomes in this patient population.