Low-dose naltrexone: A unique treatment for amyopathic dermatomyositis

Abstract

Gottron papules, a heliotrope rash, scalp and extremity erythema, pruritus, and fatigue are the characteristic signs and symptoms of amyopathic dermatomyositis (ADM). Amyopathic dermatomyositis is considered a distinct entity from dermatomyositis (DM) because the characteristic muscle weakness and muscle enzyme elevations of DM are absent in ADM. With respects to treatment, ADM treatments have traditionally included topical corticosteroids and/or systemic immunosuppressants and immunemodulators. Herein we present a patient with refractory ADM that was responsive to low-dose naltrexone therapy.