Despite my desire to accept my condition as is and without prednisone the Rheumatologist has decided to work me up for a rare autoimmune disorder called Antisynthetase Syndrome. Althernative working diagnose is myositis r/t long term use of statins.
Antisynthetase Syndrome falls under the myositis umbrella. Clinical manifestations is proximal muscle weakness, interstitial lung disease and a dermatitis (Mechanics Hands). Confirmation of the syndrome is the detection of the Jo-1 antibody with a blood test, MRI of the proximal muscles (Upper legs) for muscle breakdown and a CT scan of the lungs for interstitial lung disease.
My PMR history is well documented here in the forum. This has been a working DX for the past couple years, but never been confirmed by Rheumatology. Symptoms started occurring February of 2021. Symptoms were proximal muscle weakness as evidence by difficulty getting out of chairs, climbing stairs and fatigue. Lab results were elevated CRP, ESR and anemia. Extensive medical workup to result in an undetermined diagnosis.
Last month I went to the Rheumatologist to what I thought was my final appointment. My labs have been normal since late last year and I have simply accepted my ongoing proximal weakness to be osteo in nature. Only significant physical change is this callus cracking dermatitis to 6/10 distal fingers. I have had this issue on my right index finger for years, but only there. Only in the last month it presented itself on the other fingers. Well, this change alerted Rheumatologist to continue to work me up for a slew of myositis disorders to include Antisynthetase Syndrome. She describes this dermatitis as "Mechanic Hands".
My blood results are back, but I will not be able to receive the results until my appointment on the 1st of July. My MRI and CT scan is scheduled for the 26th of June. My CPK is on the higher end of normal at 280 (>300 abnormal) and my Leuko and Eo % are slightly high. Otherwise all other labs appear normal except my Triglycerides, which are always high.
My suspicion is long term statin use. I have taking a statin since I was 21 years old for a genetic disposition for hyperlipidemia. I have been using a statin for 30 years now. Although, this may not explain the mechanic hands. I do not have lung issues to justify interstitial lung disease, but we will see what the results show from the CT scan on the 26th.
Anyone here have any of these other myostitis disorders or know others?
Rheumatology referral
Athletes - who else thinks they may have overtrained and ended up with an auto-immune disorder
My build up to new year
Is new pain a flare-up of PMR?
Rheumatology telephone appointment
