A Rapidly Progressive Case of Statin-induced Necrotizing Autoimmune Myopathy

Statins are one of the most commonly used medications to lower cholesterol and have been known to cause various side effects including myalgias, myopathies, and rhabdomyolysis. Statin-induced necrotizing autoimmune myopathy (SINAM), a subtype of inflammatory myopathy, is an exceedingly rare but severe side effect of statin use that manifests as progressive muscle weakness. We describe a rapidly progressive case of SINAM in a 66-year-old Haitian female who developed debilitating symptoms after one month of statin use. Despite aggressive treatment with steroids and immunosuppressants, she failed to regain muscle strength and functional status, and remains on therapy. Given the widespread use of statins, it is important for clinicians to be aware of this condition and its presenting symptoms in order to initiate prompt treatment.