A Case of Dermatomyositis with Esophageal Fistula in Whom Blind Mucosal Biopsy Detected Occult Oropharyngeal Carcinoma

Abstract

We present a case of anti-transcription intermediary factor 1 (anti-TIF-1) antibody-positive dermatomyositis with concomitant esophageal fistula and extensive truncal erythema. The characteristic cutaneous features and presence of anti-TIF-1 antibodies were predictive for internal malignancy. However, repeated examinations for internal malignancy showed none, and blind mucosal biopsy was needed to diagnose oropharyngeal carcinoma. We should note the possibility of occult nasopharyngeal carcinoma and consider performing blind mucosal biopsy in dermatomyositis with esophageal fistula, especially with extensive truncal erythema.

Keywords

• Blind biopsy
• Dermatomyositis
• Esophageal fistula
• Oropharyngeal carcinoma
• Anti-transcription intermediary factor 1
• Truncal erythema