Anti-HMGCR Myopathy During NSTEMI Evaluation: The Statin Paradox and Troponin Trap.

BACKGROUND

Anti-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy causes progressive proximal weakness with marked creatine kinase elevation that persists after statin cessation. High-sensitivity troponin T may be elevated in inflammatory myopathies independent of myocardial ischemia, complicating acute coronary syndrome evaluation.

CASE SUMMARY: A 69-year-old man presented after a fall with progressive proximal weakness. Rising high-sensitivity troponin T levels prompted non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction work-up; angiography revealed severe multivessel coronary artery disease including left main involvement. Concurrent creatine kinase of 4,356 U/L and transaminitis led to myopathy evaluation. Anti-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase antibody was strongly positive (459), and thigh magnetic resonance imaging confirmed diffuse myositis. Statins were discontinued; immunotherapy was escalated to pulse methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin, and methotrexate.

DISCUSSION: This case highlights a management collision: urgent coronary revascularization planning vs absolute statin contraindication requiring rapid immunosuppression for immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy.