Periorbital heliotrope erythema with edema as a potential clinical marker of paraneoplastic Dermatomyositis – a case series

JDDG Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft 2026 Open access

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Authors: Antigona Aliu, Ulrich Peter Wehry, Frank Oellig, Thilo Gambichler, Sven-Niklas Burmann, Milan Vidakovic, Julian Philipp Kionke, Jörg H W Distler, Andrea‐Hermina Györfi, Valentina Laura Müller, Alexander Kreuter
DOI: 10.1111/ddg.70178x
Cited by: 1
References: 24

Abstract

Adult-onset dermatomyositis (DM) is frequently associated with underlying malignancies, especially in individuals with anti-TIF1-γ or anti-NXP-2 autoantibodies. This case series describes 10 cases of DM with periorbital heliotropic erythema and eyelid edema (PHEEE), in which an underlying malignancy was confirmed by imaging in 9 patients. By incorporating additional serological markers and clinical characteristics described in the literature, a simple criteria list is provided to aid in the assessment of a paraneoplastic etiology in DM. The presence of PHEE appears to constitute a clinically relevant indicator of paraneoplastic DM and requires careful screening for malignancy.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Inflammatory Myopathies and Dermatomyositis Systemic Sclerosis and Related Diseases Parkinson's Disease and Spinal Disorders

Publication details

Journal / source
JDDG Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
24
Issue
6
Pages
731–736
Publication date
28 February 2026
Language
DE