Statin-Induced Autoimmune Necrotizing Myositis: A Case Report

Statin therapy is considered one of the main therapies indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Maximal risk reduction is linked to the degree of reduction of the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; therefore, high-intensity dosing is required with coronary artery disease. Musculoskeletal side effects are reported with the use of statin, especially at high doses. Although myopathy is a common side effect, autoimmune-mediated necrotizing myositis is a rare side effect usually related to the development of hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase antibodies which attack the muscles leading to swelling manifesting as muscle weakness and pain, as presented in our case report.