Question

A 33-year-old woman presents with progressive proximal muscle weakness and a heliotrope rash around the eyes. Creatine kinase is markedly elevated. She has difficulty climbing stairs and combing her hair. What is the most appropriate initial treatment?

Accepted Answer

High-dose oral glucocorticoids

Answer

Methotrexate monotherapy without steroids

Answer

Azathioprine alone

Answer

Intravenous immunoglobulin as first-line

Answer

Physical therapy only

Practice question

A 33-year-old woman presents with progressive proximal muscle weakness and a heliotrope rash around the eyes. Creatine kinase is markedly elevated. She has difficulty climbing stairs and combing her hair. What is the most appropriate initial treatment?