Unmasking the DVT Mimic: A Rare Case of Diabetic Myonecrosis in a Young Patient

Authors

Avish Patel, MD, Thomas Jefferson University HospitalFollow
Paul Endres, MD, Thomas Jefferson University HospitalFollow
Alexander Marchese, MD, Thomas Jefferson University HospitalFollow
Dianna Cheney-Peters, MD, Thomas Jefferson University HospitalFollow

Abstract

Diabetic myonecrosis is an uncommon complication of diabetes mellitus, often falsely believed to be a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Patients present with similar presentations of edema and focal tenderness that are most often unilateral in a proximal lower extremity.¹ When venous ultrasound is negative, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic modality over muscle biopsy, given the potential complications.^2,3 Treatment includes rest, analgesia, and improved glycemic control.⁴ Given the rise of metabolic disorders and insulin resistance, it is important to be aware of this diagnosis to prevent overutilization of healthcare resources.⁵

Recommended Citation

Patel, MD, Avish; Endres, MD, Paul; Marchese, MD, Alexander; and Cheney-Peters, MD, Dianna (2025) "Unmasking the DVT Mimic: A Rare Case of Diabetic Myonecrosis in a Young Patient," The Medicine Forum: Vol. 26, Article 39.
Available at: https://jdc.jefferson.edu/tmf/vol26/iss1/39