American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

The risk of which type of cancer may be especially increased in women with dermatomyositis?

1. Breast

2. Rectal

3. Ovarian

4. Endometrial

The correct answer is: Ovarian

The association between dermatomyositis and certain types of cancer is well-documented, particularly with specific malignancies presenting in women with this autoimmune condition. Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory myopathy characterized by muscle weakness and skin manifestations, and it has been shown to have a paraneoplastic syndrome link, meaning it can be associated with underlying malignancies. In women, ovarian cancer presents a significant concern in the context of dermatomyositis. The increased risk of ovarian cancer in these patients may be attributed to shared pathophysiological mechanisms between the autoimmune disorder and the development of malignancies. Research suggests that autoantibodies seen in dermatomyositis may have a potential role in the identification of hidden malignancies, primarily ovarian cancer in women. While other cancers do have associations with dermatomyositis, such as breast and endometrial cancers, the strongest evidence points towards ovarian cancer, making it especially significant within this demographic. Recognizing this link can aid healthcare providers in monitoring and managing the health of patients with dermatomyositis, particularly regarding cancer screenings and early detection strategies.