Managing a Case of Refractory Anti-Melanoma Differentiation-Associated Gene 5 Antibody-Associated Dermatomyositis with Recent COVID-19 Infection

Abstract

Anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) antibody positive dermatomyositis is known to associate with rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease and cutaneous ulcer. The prognosis is often poor even with intensive treatment, with data from the local cohort showing 37.9% mortality [1]. Here, we report a case of refractory anti-MDA5 antibody-associated dermatomyositis that occurs shortly after COVID-19 infection and was managed using a combination of treatments that target different aspects of disease pathology.