Diabetic Myonecrosis—An Underdiagnosed, Rare Muscular Complication of a Common Disease: A Case Report

Abstract

Diabetic myonecrosis is an uncommonly encountered and underdiagnosed complication of diabetes mellitus. It could be a manifestation of poor glycemic control, and hence, progressive microvascular disease; however, it is usually self-limiting. A known but poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus patient presented with sudden onset and worsening right thigh pain and swelling. Magnetic resonance imaging showed hypertrophy and hyperintensity of the adductor muscles with non-enhanced regions denoting areas of necrosis. Conservative management of bed rest, analgesics, and controlled blood glucose yielded a positive response. Diagnosis of diabetic myonecrosis can be challenging as many diseases mimic this condition, resulting in delayed recognition, diagnosis, and initiation of prompt treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging findings rather than laboratory markers are the mainstay of diagnosis as it localizes the affected muscles and excludes other mimics.

Cite this article as: Ajayi OI, Adekoya AO, Adepoju AI, Adekoya AO, Olusola-Bello MA, Oyedepo VO. Diabetic myonecrosis— An underdiagnosed, rare muscular complication of a common disease: A case report. Endocrinol Res Pract. 2023;27(1):36-39.