Prevalence of interstitial lung disease in polymyositis and dermatomyositis: A meta-analysis from 2000 to 2020

Design of a randomised controlled hybrid trial of nintedanib in patients with progressive myositis-associated interstitial lung disease

BACKGROUND

The Myositis Interstitial Lung Disease Nintedanib Trial (MINT) is a hybrid trial, which is enrolling patients both at local sites and remotely via a decentralised site. The trial will investigate the efficacy and safety of nintedanib in patients with progressive myositis-associated interstitial lung disease (MA-ILD).

METHODS/DESIGN

MINT is an exploratory, prospective randomised placebo-controlled trial. Eligible patients will have myositis and evidence of fibrosing ILD on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), be taking standard of care medications for myositis, and meet criteria for ILD progression within the prior 24 months based on decline in FVC, worsened fibrosis on HRCT, and/or worsened dyspnoea. Patients will be randomised 1:1 to receive nintedanib 150 mg twice daily or placebo for 12 weeks then open-label nintedanib for 12 weeks. Patients will be enrolled at local sites and a decentralised site. Most study visits will be completed remotely using telemedicine or digital health technologies. The primary endpoint is the change in Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis (L-PF) questionnaire dyspnoea domain score at week 12. Other endpoints include changes in other L-PF questionnaire domains, lung function, imaging, and physical activity, and assessment of adverse events. Data collected using remote versus clinic enrolment, and using home versus clinic spirometry, will be compared.

DISCUSSION

MINT is an innovative, hybrid trial that will evaluate the effects of nintedanib on symptoms, quality of life, and ILD progression in patients with progressive MA-ILD and provide valuable information on the utility of decentralised recruitment and remote data collection in clinical trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05799755 (date of registration: 05/04/2023).

Myositis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease: The Experience of a Tertiary Center

Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common extra-muscular manifestation of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), often associated with a poorer prognosis and increased mortality risk. Methods: This retrospective study aimed to characterize lung involvement and treatment response in an IIM cohort at a Portuguese tertiary center, followed between June 2016 and March 2024. We analyzed data from high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to assess associations with autoantibody profiles and treatment regimens. Results: A total of 198 patients were included, with 69 (34.8%) exhibiting ILD. Antisynthetase syndrome (ASyS) and dermatomyositis were the most common diagnoses among IIM-ILD patients, with ASyS being significantly more frequent in this group than in non-ILD patients (p < 0.001). Anti-Jo1 and anti-MDA-5 antibodies were more frequent in ILD patients (p < 0.001 and p = 0.021), while anti-Mi2 antibodies were less common (p = 0.002). Non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) was the most common radiological pattern (69.5%). IIM-ILD patients presented with significantly lower forced vital capacity (FVC) and diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) compared to non-ILD patients (p < 0.001 for all values). Longitudinal analysis showed improved DLCO (p = 0.022) and stable or improved FVC (p = 0.097), especially with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and azathioprine (AZA). Combination therapies including IVIg with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or rituximab (RTX) also improved DLCO and FVC. Most ILD patients (89.6%) had stable HRCT patterns over time. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the potential for stabilizing or even improving lung function in IIM-ILD with appropriate immunosuppressive therapy, particularly with regimens incorporating IVIg and AZA, and combination therapies.

An Observational Study on the Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Patients With Interstitial Lung Disease Secondary to Dermatomyositis and Antisynthetase Syndrome

Objective: Identify the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) combined with interstitial lung disease (ILD). Methods: IIM-ILD patients who were hospitalized at Guangxi Medical University from January 2017 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed and classified as having dermatomyositis (DM)-ILD or -ILD. Clinical and laboratory results were analyzed. Results: There were 39 males and 111 females, the mean age of disease onset was 50.4 ± 12.3 years, and the median disease duration was 3 months (range: 1-6). Ninety-seven patients had DM-ILD, and 53 had ASS-ILD. The DM-ILD group had 72% positivity for the anti-MDA5 antibody and 5.2% positivity for the anti-Mi-2 antibody; the ASS-ILD group had 67.9% positivity for the anti-Jo-1 antibody and 17% positivity for the anti-EJ antibody. Muscle symptoms, skin ulcers, rash, rapidly progressing interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD), and elevated levels of serum carcinoembryonic antigen were more common in DM-ILD patients (all p < 0.05). However, pericardial effusion and pleural effusion, elevated creatinine kinase, and elevated C-reactive protein were more common in ASS-ILD patients. After a median follow-up of 15.5 months, there were more deaths in the DM-ILD group (42.3% vs. 13.2%, p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that RP-ILD, dyspnea, and the usual interstitial pneumonia type of ILD had negative associations with overall survival (OS), and arthralgia had a positive association with OS (all p < 0.05). Conclusion: DM-ILD patients were more prone to secondary RP-ILD and skin ulcers, had milder symptoms of myositis and less severe serositis, and had lower survival rates than the ASS-ILD patients. RP-ILD, dyspnea, and the usual interstitial pneumonia type of ILD had adverse effects on prognosis, but arthralgia was a protective factor.

Interstitial lung disease and myositis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In patients with myositis, interstitial lung disease (ILD) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality. Given the limited evidence, there is an urgent need to refine the treatment for myositis-ILD. This review aims to highlight recent updates on the management of myositis-associated ILD, focusing on screening, risk stratification, and treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Asian race and/or residence, dermatomyositis, mechanic's hand, antisynthetase antibodies, and antimelanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 antibodies are risk factors for ILD development. Patients with such risk factors should be screened for ILD using high-resolution computed tomography. Various prediction models for mortality or rapidly progressive ILD (RP-ILD) in patients with myositis-ILD have been proposed, but validation of these models in multiple independent studies is required. Academic societies in Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States have proposed tentative treatment algorithms for myositis-ILD on the basis of the presence or absence of RP-ILD.

SUMMARY

Knowledge on myositis-ILD risk stratification, potentially useful for personalized management approaches in clinical practice, is accumulating. However, further global joint efforts are necessary to build a strong evidence base for consensus algorithms for myositis-ILD.

Roles of TRIM21/Ro52 in connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung diseases

Multiple factors contribute to the development of connective tissue diseases (CTD), often alongside a range of interstitial lung diseases (ILD), including Sjögren's syndrome-associated ILD, systemic sclerosis-associated ILD, systemic lupus erythematosus-associated ILD, idiopathic inflammatory myositis-associated ILD. TRIM21(or Ro52), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, plays a vital role in managing innate and adaptive immunity, and maintaining cellular homeostasis, and is a focal target for autoantibodies in various rheumatic autoimmune diseases. However, the effectiveness of anti-TRIM21 antibodies in diagnosing CTD remains a matter of debate because of their non-specific nature. Recent studies indicate that TRIM21 and its autoantibody are involved in the pathogenesis of CTD-ILD and play an important role in diagnosis and prognosis. In this review, we focus on the contribution of TRIM21 in the pathogenesis of CTD-ILD, as well as the potential diagnostic value of its autoantibodies in different types of CTD-ILD for disease progression and potential as a novel therapeutic target.

ASM is a therapeutic target in dermatomyositis by regulating the differentiation of naive CD4 + T cells into Th17 and Treg subsets

BACKGROUND

This study aims to investigate the involvement of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) in the pathology of dermatomyositis (DM), making it a potential therapeutic target for DM.

METHODS

Patients with DM and healthy controls (HCs) were included to assess the serum level and activity of ASM, and to explore the associations between ASM and clinical indicators. Subsequently, a myositis mouse model was established using ASM gene knockout and wild-type mice to study the significant role of ASM in the pathology and to assess the treatment effect of amitriptyline, an ASM inhibitor. Additionally, we investigated the potential treatment mechanism by targeting ASM both in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

A total of 58 DM patients along with 30 HCs were included. The ASM levels were found to be significantly higher in DM patients compared to HCs, with median (quartile) values of 2.63 (1.80-4.94) ng/mL and 1.64 (1.47-1.96) ng/mL respectively. The activity of ASM in the serum of DM patients was significantly higher than that in HCs. Furthermore, the serum levels of ASM showed correlations with disease activity and muscle enzyme levels. Knockout of ASM or treatment with amitriptyline improved the severity of the disease, rebalanced the CD4 T cell subsets Th17 and Treg, and reduced the production of their secreted cytokines. Subsequent investigations revealed that targeting ASM could regulate the expression of relevant transcription factors and key regulatory proteins.

CONCLUSION

ASM is involved in the pathology of DM by regulating the differentiation of naive CD4 + T cells and can be a potential treatment target.

HRCT findings predict 1-year mortality in patients with acute exacerbation of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies-associated interstitial lung disease

Background

Acute exacerbation of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies-associated interstitial lung disease (AE-IIM-ILD) is a significant event associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, few studies investigated the potential prognostic factors contributing to mortality in patients who experience AE-IIM-ILD.

Objectives

The purpose of our study was to comprehensively investigate whether high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings predict the 1-year mortality in patients who experience AE-IIM-ILD.

Methods

A cohort of 69 patients with AE-IIM-ILD was retrospectively created. The cohort was 79.7 % female, with a mean age of 50.7. Several HRCT features, including total interstitial lung disease extent (TIDE), distribution patterns, and radiologic ILD patterns, were assessed. A directed acyclic graph (DAG) was used to evaluate the statistical relationship between variables. The Cox regression method was performed to identify potential prognostic factors associated with mortality.

Results

The HRCT findings significantly associated with AE-IIM-ILD mortality include TIDE (HR per 10%-increase, 1.64; 95%CI, 1.29-2.1, p < 0.001; model 1: C-index, 0.785), diffuse distribution pattern (HR, 3.75, 95%CI, 1.5-9.38, p = 0.005; model 2: C-index, 0.737), and radiologic diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) pattern (HR, 6.37, 95 % CI, 0.81-50.21, p = 0.079; model 3: C-index, 0.735). TIDE greater than 58.33 %, diffuse distribution pattern, and radiologic DAD pattern correlate with poor prognosis. The 90-day, 180-day, and 1-year survival rates of patients who experience AE-IIM-ILD were 75.3 %, 66.3 %, and 63.3 %, respectively.

Conclusion

HRCT findings, including TIDE, distribution pattern, and radiological pattern, are predictive of 1-year mortality in patients who experience AE-IIM-ILD.

Pulmonary Hypertension in Connective Tissue Diseases Other than Systemic Sclerosis

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a known complication of certain connective tissue diseases (CTDs), with systemic sclerosis (SSc) being the most common in the Western world. However, PH in association with non-SSc CTD such as systemic lupus erythematous, mixed connective tissue disease, and primary Sjögren's syndrome constitutes a distinct subset of patients with inherently different epidemiologic profiles, pathophysiologic mechanisms, clinical features, therapeutic options, and prognostic implications. The purpose of this review is to inform a practical approach for clinicians evaluating patients with non-SSc CTD-associated PH.The development of PH in these patients involves a complex interplay between genetic factors, immune-mediated mechanisms, and endothelial cell dysfunction. Furthermore, the broad spectrum of CTD manifestations can contribute to the development of PH through various pathophysiologic mechanisms, including intrinsic pulmonary arteriolar vasculopathy (pulmonary arterial hypertension, Group 1 PH), left-heart disease (Group 2), chronic lung disease (Group 3), chronic pulmonary artery obstruction (Group 4), and unclear and/or multifactorial mechanisms (Group 5). The importance of diagnosing PH early in symptomatic patients with non-SSc CTD is highlighted, with a review of the relevant biomarkers, imaging, and diagnostic procedures required to establish a diagnosis.Therapeutic strategies for non-SSc PH associated with CTD are explored with an in-depth review of the medical, interventional, and surgical options available to these patients, emphasizing the CTD-specific considerations that guide treatment and aid in prognosis. By identifying gaps in the current literature, we offer insights into future research priorities that may prove valuable for patients with PH associated with non-SSc CTD.

Methotrexate Use and Risk of Interstitial Lung Disease in Dermatomyositis

This cohort study examines the association between methotrexate use and interstitial lung disease in patients with dermatomyositis.

Clinical implications and mechanism of complement C1q in polymyositis

Polymyositis (PM) is the most common autoimmune disease in neurology and among muscle disorders; it is of great significance to thoroughly understand the mechanism of PM to find new diagnosis and treatment methods. This research intends to elucidate the clinical implications and mechanisms of complement C1q in polymyositis (PM). One hundred fifteen PM patients (research group, RG) and 120 healthy subjects (control group, CG) who visited our hospital between March 2017 and March 2020 were selected. Peripheral blood C1q and creatine kinase (CK) levels of both groups were measured, and their correlations with clinical symptoms and prognostic recurrence of PM. Additionally, to further understand the mechanism of action of C1q in PM, we purchased BALB/c mice and grouped them as follows: control group with normal feeding, PM group with PM modeling, intervention group with PM modeling, and intraperitoneal injection of gC1qR monoclonal antibody 60.11, a C1q protein receptor. Inflammatory factors and muscle histopathology were detected in all groups of mice. Finally, rat macrophages (mø) were isolated, and changes in the biological behavior of mø were observed after silencing the expression of gC1qR. Serum C1q and CK were both higher in RG than in CG, with favorable diagnostic effects on PM (P < 0.05). C1q and CK increased in symptomatic anti-ribonuclear protein antibody (RNP)-positive patients but decreased in anti Jo-1 antibody (Jo-1)- and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-positive patients (P < 0.05). PM mice were observed with elevated gC1qR, while model mice exhibited severe infiltration of inflammatory cells in muscle tissue, increased pro-IFs, and reduced anti-IFs, and the animals in the intervention group showed improved conditions (P < 0.05). Finally, it was found that CD68, CD86 protein, and invasion capacity of gC1qR-sh-transfected cells decreased, while CD206 and CD163 increased (P < 0.05). C1q is elevated in PM and is strongly linked to the pathological process of PM. Inhibition of gC1qR expression reduced inflammatory infiltration in PM mice.

Bibliometric analysis of the pirfenidone and nintedanib in interstitial lung diseases

Background

At the beginning of 21st century, reclassification of fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (ILD) scored academic concerning, and then propelled development. Decade before, pifenidone and nintedanib were approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, but no more drugs are yet available. To evaluate the development traits of pirfenidone and nintedanib in fibrosing ILD, including the influential country, institution, authors, keywords, and the major problems or the priorities of the field emerge and evolve, bibliometric analysis was used to summarize and draw scientific knowledge maps.

Methods

We confined the words to "pirfenidone", "nintedanib", "pulmonary fibrosis", and "lung disease, interstitial". Publications were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection on February 24, 2024 with the search strategies. Citespace and VOSviewer were adopted for bibliometric analysis.

Results

For the knowledge map of pirfenidone, a total of 4359 authors from 279 institutions in 58 countries/regions contributed to 538 studies. The United States and Italy are way ahead. Genentech Inc and the University of Turin are the institutions with the strongest influence. AM J RESP CRIT CARE is the maximized influential periodical. Raghu G was the most frequently co-cited scholar. keywords cluster demonstrated that vital capacity, safety, outcome, effectiveness, acute exacerbation, pathway, cell, collagen were the hotspots. The burst timeline of hotspots and references revealed academic transitions of pirfenidone-related studies. About the knowledge map of nintedanib, 3297 authors from 238 institutions in 47 countries/regions published 374 studies. Japan, the United States, and Italy are the most productive countries. Boehringer Ingelheim is the overriding productive institution. New ENGL J MED have important roles in reporting milestones of nintedanib. Richeldi L carried numerous capital publications to support the anti-fibrotic effect of nintedanib. From the network of co-occurrence keywords, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, efficacy, and safety were the hotspots. Nintedanib for systemic sclerosis-related ILD and progressive pulmonary fibrosis is the hotspot with sharp evolution recently.

Conclusions

We summarized and showed developmental alterations of pirfenidone and nintedanib in fibrosing ILD through bibliographic index-based analysis. Our findings showed just dozen years sharp development period of pirfenidone and nintedanib in ILD, and identifies potential partners for interested researchers. The burst of hotspots demonstrated the evolvement of research priorities and major problems, and we observed the transition of keywords from experimental terms like mouse, bleomycin, cell, pathway, collagen, gene expression, to clinical terms including efficacy, safety, survival, acute exacerbation, and progressive pulmonary fibrosis. In the future, exploration about disparity models of drug administration, differences between early and later initiate anti-fibrotic therapy, both short-term and long-term efficacy of pirfenidone and nintedanib in fibrosing ILD, specifically in connective disease associate ILD would be emphatically concerned by pulmonologists.

Clinical Features and Outcomes of Patients with Idiopathic Inflammatory Myositis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease in Rural Appalachia: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are a group of autoimmune disorders often complicated by interstitial lung disease (ILD). The clinical characteristics and outcomes of IIM-associated ILD have been reported variably, but the literature on rural populations is scarce.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a rural tertiary academic medical center. Twenty-nine patients met the final inclusion criteria. The primary outcome was to assess the disease state and immunological and radiographic features of IIM-associated ILD. Secondary outcomes included disease progression, ILD exacerbation, mortality rate, and factors associated with poor outcome.

RESULTS

Dermatomyositis (n = 15, 51.72%) followed by polymyositis (n = 8, 27.58%) were predominant myopathies. The most common autoantibodies were anti-Jo1 antibodies (n = 11, 37.93%). Indeterminate usual interstitial pneumonitis (41.30%, n = 12) was the most common radiographic pattern followed by non-specific interstitial pneumonia (n = 5, 17.24%). ILD exacerbation (n = 14, 66.66%) and mortality rate (n = 6, 20.69%) were high. Albumin levels were significantly lower in patients who died.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical characteristics of patients with IIM-associated ILD in rural Appalachia exhibit notable distinctions, and outcomes are worse compared to other populations. Larger studies are needed to investigate other prognostics factors and longitudinal trends of clinical characteristics and outcomes of IIM-associated ILD in rural populations.

A bibliometric analysis of the research status and trends in studies on polymyositis and dermatomyositis with interstitial lung disease from 2000 to 2022 using Web of Science

BACKGROUND

The main subtypes of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs)-polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM)-are often presented as interstitial lung disease (ILD) in clinical practice; therefore, many researchers have combined the three studies into PM/DM with ILD.

METHODS

Using bibliometrics, the research status, progress, and hotspots of PM/DM with ILD between 2000 and 2022 were studied. Literature data on PM/DM with ILD were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS) database for the research period. Visualization software, including VOSviewer, Pajek, CiteSpace, and Scimago Graphica were used for bibliometric analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 1555 relevant articles were obtained, and the overall research in this field showed an increasing trend. Regarding contributing countries and venues, Japan published the most articles while Rheumatology was the most prolific journal. Regarding authors, the most published article was by Wang Guochun from Changchun University of Technology in China. Keyword analysis and cocited literature cluster analysis showed that diagnosis, classification, autoantibodies, antibodies, prognosis, complications, and treatment of PM/DM with ILD have been hot topics in this field recently. Moreover, our study shows that anti-mda5 antibody, mortality, gene 5 antibody, IIMs, double-blind, and prognostic factors, among others, may be new hot topics.

CONCLUSION

This study found that research on PM/DM with ILD has increased over time, and scholars are paying more attention to this field. The development of new drugs for the management, treatment, and prevention of PM/DM with ILD is the primary task of researchers and a direction for future research in this field.

Serum ferritin as a significant biomarker for patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy-associated interstitial lung disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The biomarkers for predicting the occurrence, progression, and death of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy-associated interstitial lung disease (IIM-ILD) remain unclear. Serum ferritin (SF) is a potential candidate and this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to reveal the clinical significance of SF in IIM-ILD.

METHODS

Eligible English studies were selected from PubMed, Embase, Web of science and Scopus up to 9 June 2023. The SF levels in patients with IIM-ILD were extracted and pooled. Subgroup analysis was performed based on disease types, sensitivity analysis was conducted by excluding one class of literature at a time, and publication bias was assessed by funnel plot and Egger's test.

RESULTS

Pooled analysis of 1,933 patients with IIM from 19 studies showed that SF levels were significantly higher in IIM-ILD group (WMD=263.53ng/mL, 95% CI: 146.44-380.62, p<0.001) than IIM without ILD, subgroup analysis showed that SF levels in DM-ILD (WMD = 397.67ng/mL, 95% CI:142.84-652.50, p = 0.002) and PM/DM-ILD (WMD = 117.68 ng/mL, 95% CI: 86.32-149.04, p < 0.001) were significantly higher compared to those without ILD. SF levels were significantly higher in rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease group (RP-ILD)(WMD = 484.99 ng/mL, 95% CI: 211.12-758.87, p= 0.001) than chronic ILD(C-ILD) group, subgroup analysis showed that SF levels in DM-RP-ILD (WMD= 509.75 ng/mL, 95% CI: 215.34-804.16, p=0.001) were significantly higher than those in DM-C-ILD group. SF levels were significantly higher in death group (WMD= 722.16 ng/mL, 95% CI: 572.32-872.00, p< 0.001) compared to the survival group, subgroup analysis showed that death patients with DM-ILD(WMD= 735.62 ng/mL, 95% CI:574.92-896.32, p<0.001) and PM-ILD (WMD= 632.56 ng/mL, 95% CI:217.92-1047.19, p=0.003) had significantly higher SF levels than survival group respectively.

CONCLUSION

Increased SF levels can serve as a biomarker for predicting the occurrence, progression and death of patients with IIM-ILD, which can provide early warning sign for intervention and prognosis evaluation for IIM-ILD patients.

Causes and Clinical Presentation of Drug-Induced Dermatomyositis: A Systematic Review

Importance

While several medications are known to induce dermatomyositis (DM), most existing studies are case reports or small case series from a single institution. There is also limited information on DM induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are increasingly used in oncologic therapy.

Objective

To characterize causes and clinical presentation of drug-induced DM based on the current literature.

Evidence Review

A systematic review was performed in PubMed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines, from inception to August 22, 2022. Articles meeting preestablished inclusion criteria (written in English and classified as original articles, case reports, literature reviews, and observation letters) were selected and data abstracted. Articles that met the scope of the review were also added from reference lists. When possible, study results were quantitatively combined.

Findings

In 134 studies (114 from the literature search and 20 additional studies pulled from reference lists) describing 165 cases, 88 patients (53.3%) were female, and the median (IQR) age was 61 (49-69) years. Among the cases of drug-induced DM, the most common associated medications were hydroxyurea (50 [30.3%]), immune checkpoint inhibitors (27 [16.4%]), statins (22 [13.3%]), penicillamine (10 [6.1%]), and tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (10 [6.1%]). Histopathologic testing, when undertaken, helped establish the diagnosis. There was a median (IQR) of 60 (21-288) days between drug initiation and drug-induced DM onset. History of cancer was reported in 85 cases (51.6%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this systematic review, drug-induced DM was associated with multiple types of medications, including chemotherapies and immunotherapies. It is essential that dermatologists promptly recognize and diagnose drug-induced DM so that they can guide management to minimize interruption of therapy when possible.

The Role of Environmental Factors in the Development of Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies: a Narrative Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to evaluate recent findings on the role of environmental factors in the development and clinical presentation of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs).

RECENT FINDINGS

A targeted literature review was conducted to identify reports relevant to the association between environmental factors and IIMs published over the past three years. There has been an increasing number of publications dealing with the association of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection or vaccination with the development of IIMs, highlighting the significant role of the antiviral immune response in the pathogenesis of the disease. Traditional environmental factors associated with the pathogenic process of IIM subclassifications included drugs such as statins and immune checkpoint inhibitors, ultraviolet radiation, smoking, air pollutants, and vitamin D deficiency. Correlations of seasonality and residence with the onset of certain IIM subtypes suggest a potential role of environmental triggers in the pathogenic process. An interplay between genetic predisposition and various environmental factors might contribute to the development of IIMs as well as the heterogeneous clinical and serological presentation of IIMs. The growing evidence on the role of environmental factors in the development of IIMs provides important clues to elucidate the pathophysiology of these disease entities. The mechanisms underlying the interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental factors should be investigated in the future.

Clinical features of dermatomyositis patients with anti-TIF1 antibodies: A case based comprehensive review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Dermatomyositis is chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting skin and muscles. Antibodies are key players of pathogenesis and are in strong correlation with distinct clinical phenotypes. We present a case and a comprehensive review of the literature on dermatomyositis patients with Anti TIF1 antibodies.

METHODS

PubMed and Web of Science databases were reviewed. 166 articles were identified; 95 of them were evaluated; 79 of them included to the study. 45 of the included articles were case reports 9 were case series and 25 were research articles. In total 1065 patients were identified but number of patients with available information for different clinical features varied.

RESULTS

69.6% of the patients with Anti TIF1-γ were female. Prevalence of malignancy was 42.6% among patients with Anti TIF1-γ. Muscle weakness (83%), Gottron sign (82.2%), heliotrope rash (73.7%), nailfold capillary changes (67.7%), dysphagia (38.4%), and joint involvement (31.1%) were the most common clinical features seen in patients with Anti TIF1-γ. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) was reported among 8.7% of patients with Anti TIF1-γ. Advanced age, male gender, dysphagia, and V-neck rash were significant risk factors for malignancy, whereas juvenile age, ILD, TIF1-β antibodies and joint involvement were associated with a decreased risk for malignancy. Advanced age, malignancy, dysphagia, and muscle involvement were associated with an increased risk for mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with advanced age, male gender, dysphagia, and V-neck rash require strict cancer screening. Patients with advanced age, malignancy, dysphagia, and muscle involvement have poor prognosis and should receive aggressive treatment.

Clinical nomogram assisting in discrimination of juvenile dermatomyositis-associated interstitial lung disease

OBJECTIVE

To establish a prediction model using non-invasive clinical features for early discrimination of DM-ILD in clinical practice.

METHOD

Clinical data of pediatric patients with JDM were retrospectively analyzed using machine learning techniques. The early discrimination model for JDM-ILD was established within a patient cohort diagnosed with JDM at a children's hospital between June 2015 and October 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 93 children were included in the study, with the cohort divided into a discovery cohort (n = 58) and a validation cohort (n = 35). Univariate and multivariate analyses identified factors associated with JDM-ILD, including higher ESR (OR, 3.58; 95% CI 1.21-11.19, P = 0.023), higher IL-10 levels (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.02-1.41, P = 0.038), positivity for MDA-5 antibodies (OR, 5.47; 95% CI, 1.11-33.43, P = 0.045). A nomogram was developed for risk prediction, demonstrating favorable discrimination in both the discovery cohort (AUC, 0.736; 95% CI, 0.582-0.868) and the validation cohort (AUC, 0.792; 95% CI, 0.585-0.930). Higher nomogram scores were significantly associated with an elevated risk of disease progression in both the discovery cohort (P = 0.045) and the validation cohort (P = 0.017).

CONCLUSION

The nomogram based on the ESIM predictive model provides valuable guidance for the clinical evaluation and long-term prognosis prediction of JDM-ILD.

Characteristics and risk of interstitial lung disease in dermatomyositis and polymyositis: a retrospective cohort study in Japan

Dermatomyositis and polymyositis are rare, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Interstitial lung disease is one of the most common and potentially severe extra-muscular manifestations of dermatomyositis and polymyositis and is strongly linked to poor prognosis and early mortality. We aimed to characterise the demographic and clinical characteristics, incidence, and treatment of interstitial lung disease in patients with dermatomyositis or polymyositis. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Japan Medical Data Center healthcare claims database. Patients in the database with dermatomyositis (International Classification of Disease version 10 M33.0, M33.1, M33.9) or polymyositis (M33.2) from 01-Jan-2011 until 31-Dec-2019 were identified and followed-up for interstitial lung disease (J84.x) until death, dis-enrolment, or study end (31 December 2020). Cumulative risk curves compared interstitial lung disease risk in dermatomyositis versus polymyositis. Risk factors were evaluated by Cox proportional hazard models. There were 886 patients with dermatomyositis and 745 patients with polymyositis included in the cohort analysis. Mean (standard deviation) age at dermatomyositis/polymyositis diagnosis was 46.0 (16.0)/49.7 (13.3) years and 300 (34%)/104 (14%) developed interstitial lung disease during follow-up. The incidence rate of interstitial lung disease per 100 person-years was 18.42 (95% CI 16.42-20.59) for dermatomyositis and 5.39 (95% CI 4.43-6.50) for polymyositis. In the analysis adjusted for sex, age, and comorbidity score, the risk of interstitial lung disease was significantly higher in patients with dermatomyositis than with polymyositis (hazard ratio 2.72, 95% CI 2.18-3.41). The rate diverged markedly between the groups in the first year after diagnosis. Risk factors for interstitial lung disease were older age in dermatomyositis, female sex and rheumatoid arthritis in polymyositis. Glucocorticoids with/without tacrolimus were the most common newly prescribed drugs after the interstitial lung disease diagnosis. In conclusion, the risk of developing interstitial lung disease was significantly higher in patients with dermatomyositis than with polymyositis, and risk factors were different in the 2 patient groups.

Juvenile Dermatomyositis in Afro-Caribbean children: a cohort study in the French West Indies

INTRODUCTION

The epidemiology of Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) in non-Caucasian population is poorly described. We performed a study of patients followed up in the French West Indies for JDM. We aimed to describe clinical and biological specificities during childhood.

METHODS

Retrospective study covering the period from Januarys 2000-2023. Listings of patients were obtained from multiple sources, namely computerized hospital archives, registry of referent pediatricians and adult specialists in internal medicine and the French National Registry for rare diseases. JDM and organ involvement were defined according to the international ILAR criteria.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients were included over a 23 year-period. Median age at onset was 8.1 years (Range: 2.5-13.9) with a median follow up of 8 years (Range: 2-19). Two-thirds (14/21) had dysphagia at onset and 33% had respiratory involvement. Thirteen had specific autoantibodies (58%), most frequently anti-Mi-2. The median number of flares during childhood was three (1-9). During childhood, 76% had calcinosis lesions. Clinical evolution seemed to be more aggressive for boys than girls (respectively 4.2 versus 2.2 flares (p = 0.04) and 50% vs 18% needing more than one background therapy, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study is the largest cohort of pediatric patients of Afro-Caribbean and Black African descent treated for JDM in a high-income health system, and the first to describe the incidence and immunological profile in a population of African descent. They had higher rate of calcinosis and similar respiratory involvement. Overall outcomes during childhood were similar to North America and European countries.

Real world experience with nintedanib in connective tissue disease-related interstitial lung disease: a retrospective cohort study

Various connective tissue diseases tend to affect specific organs, lungs being the organ with the most serious repercussions and consequences. The diagnosis of interstitial lung disease makes the treatment more difficult and worsens long-term prognosis and overall survival. Positive results from the registration studies of nintedanib led to approval of the drug for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic fibrosing interstitial lung diseases in connective tissue diseases. After registration, real-world data on the use of nintedanib are being collected in everyday clinical practise. The objective of the study was to collect and analyse real world experience gathered after the registration of nintedanib for the treatment of CTD-ILD and to show if the positive results collected from a homogeneous and "representative" study population can be applied to everyday clinical practice. We are presenting a retrospective observational case-series study of patients treated with nintedanib from the three largest Croatian centers specialised in the treatment of connective tissue diseases with interstitial lung diseases. Stabilisation or improved of lung function tests was reported in 68% of patients when changes in predicted FVC were observed and in 72% of patients when changes in DLco were analysed. Almost all of the reported patients (98%) were treated with nintedanib as an add-on drug to immunosuppressants. The most common side-effects were gastrointestinal symptoms and abnormal liver function tests in less extent. Our real-world data confirm the tolerability, efficacy and similar side-effects of nintedanib as reported in pivotal trials. Key Points • Interstitial lung disease is a common manifestation of several connective tissue diseases and its progressive fibrosing phenotype contributes to high mortality rate and many unmet needs regarding the treatment remain. • Registration studies of nintedanib obtained sufficient data and positive results to support approval of the drug. • Real-world evidence from our CTD-ILD centres confirm the clinical trial data regarding efficacy, tolerability and safety of nintedanib.

Phenotypic Profiles Among 72 Caucasian and Afro-Caribbean Patients with Antisynthetase Syndrome Involving Anti-PL7 or Anti-PL12 Autoantibodies

OBJECTIVES

Antisynthetase syndrome (ASyS) is a rare autoimmune disease. We aimed to determine clinical, biological, radiological, and evolutive profiles of ASyS patients with anti-PL7 or anti-PL12 autoantibodies.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study that included adults with overt positivity for anti-PL7/anti-PL12 autoantibodies and at least one Connors' criterion.

RESULTS

Among 72 patients, 69% were women, 29 had anti-PL7 and 43 anti-PL12 autoantibodies, median age was 60.3 years, and median follow-up period was 52.2 months. At diagnosis, 76% of patients had interstitial lung disease, 61% had arthritis, 39% myositis, 25% Raynaud's phenomenon, 18% mechanic's hands, and 17% had fever. The most frequent pattern on initial chest computed tomography was non-specific interstitial pneumonia and 67% had fibrosis at last follow-up. During follow-up, 12 patients had pericardial effusion (18%), 19 had pulmonary hypertension (29%), 9 (12.5%) had neoplasms, and 14 (19%) died. Sixty-seven patients (93%) received at least one steroid or immunosuppressive drug. Patients with anti-PL12 autoantibodies were younger (p=0.01) and more frequently exhibited anti-SSA autoantibodies (p=0.01); patients with anti-PL7 autoantibodies had more severe weakness and higher maximum creatine kinase levels (p=0.03 and 0.04, respectively). Initial severe dyspnoea was more common in patients from the West Indies (p=0.009), with lower predicted values of forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1s, and total lung capacity (p=0.01, p=0.02, p=0.01, respectively) contributing to a more severe 'respiratory' initial presentation.

CONCLUSIONS

The high mortality and significant numbers of cardiovascular events, neoplasms and lung fibrosis in anti-PL7/12 patients justify close monitoring and question addition of antifibrotic drugs.

The prevalence and effects of treatments of rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease of dermatomyositis/polymyositis adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) clearly harms the prognoses of dermatomyositis/polymyositis (DM/PM) patients, however there is a dearth of numerical prevalence and therapy comparison in this field. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of RP-ILD in DM/PM patients and compare prognoses, including remission rate and survival data, between treatments. Studies with reports of RP-ILD in DM/PM patients and studies with definite remission and/or survival data of DM/PM-RP-ILD were included in the study. Data sources were Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library without language restrictions. Two authors (WHL and WWQ) extracted independently the data. Estimates of the pooled effects were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel technique (random effects). The prevalence meta-analysis included 18 papers with 6058 DM/PM patients, and 31 papers were analyzed for treatment effects, including remission rate, 6-month survival rate, 1-year survival rate, and 5-year survival rate. Database search yielded 1816 articles. In the DM/PM population, the combined prevalence of RP-ILD was 8.9% (95% CI, 5.8% to 12.1%). Patients with RP-ILD have a remission rate of 58.4% (95% CI, 47.3% to 69.4%), with biologic treatment with the highest remission rate, followed by triple therapy (defined as adding a third intravenous medication, including cyclophosphamide and immunoglobulin). Biologics therapy had the highest overall survival rate at six months (95% CI, 49.8% to 73.9%), followed by cDMARDs, plasma exchange, and triple therapy. The 1-year survival rate was 77.4% (95% CI, 66.7% to 88.1%), and triple therapy and cDMARDs had the best survival rates. The 5-year survival rate was 40.0% (95% CI, 10.0% to 69.9%). The prevalence of RP-ILD in DM/PM was approximately 8.9%, with a poor long-term prognosis. The use of biological agents appears to provide the best therapeutic outcomes, providing RP-ILD management with a novel evidence-based therapy. The use of strong immunosuppressive treatments may result in life-threatening side effects, thus clinicians must closely monitor the condition.

Leveraging Genomic and Bioinformatic Analysis to Enhance Drug Repositioning for Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune disease that is classified as a type of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy, which affects human skin and muscles. The most common clinical symptoms of DM are muscle weakness, rash, and scaly skin. There is currently no cure for DM. Genetic factors are known to play a pivotal role in DM progression, but few have utilized this information geared toward drug discovery for the disease. Here, we exploited genomic variation associated with DM and integrated this with genomic and bioinformatic analyses to discover new drug candidates. We first integrated genome-wide association study (GWAS) and phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) catalogs to identify disease-associated genomic variants. Biological risk genes for DM were prioritized using strict functional annotations, further identifying candidate drug targets based on druggable genes from databases. Overall, we analyzed 1239 variants associated with DM and obtained 43 drugs that overlapped with 13 target genes (JAK2, FCGR3B, CD4, CD3D, LCK, CD2, CD3E, FCGR3A, CD3G, IFNAR1, CD247, JAK1, IFNAR2). Six drugs clinically investigated for DM, as well as eight drugs under pre-clinical investigation, are candidate drugs that could be repositioned for DM. Further studies are necessary to validate potential biomarkers for novel DM therapeutics from our findings.

Global trends of interstitial lung diseases from 1990 to 2019: an age-period-cohort study based on the Global Burden of Disease study 2019, and projections until 2030

BACKGROUND

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are indispensable components of chronic respiratory diseases and global health challenges. We aimed to explore the global long-term changes in the prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of ILDs; investigate the independent effect of age, period, and cohort; and project the disease burden over the next decade.

METHODS

Data were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database 2019. The joinpoint regression model was used to calculate the average annual percent change (AAPC). An age-period-cohort (APC) analysis was employed to measure the independent effect of age, period, and cohort. The Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model was used to project the global epidemiological trends until 2030.

RESULTS

From 1990 to 2019, the age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rate (ASDR) of interstitial lung disease and pulmonary sarcoidosis (ILD) slightly increased from 52.66 per 100,000 [95% uncertainty interval (UI) 44.49 to 61.07] to 57.62 per 100,000 (95% UI 49.42 to 65.67), from 1.76 per 100,000 (95% UI 1.41 to 2.22) to 2.17 per 100,000 (95% UI 1.5 to 2.62), and from 41.57 per 100,000 (95% UI 33.93 to 51.92) to 46.45 per 100,000 (95% UI 35.12 to 54.98), whereas the ASPR, ASMR, and ASDR of pneumoconiosis decreased. High social-demographic index (SDI) regions possessed the highest ASPR, whereas low-middle SDI regions had the highest ASMR and ASDR, followed by low-SDI regions in ILD. Middle-SDI regions reported the highest ASPR, ASMR, and ASDR in pneumoconiosis. The age effect showed that the rate ratio (RR) was high in older adults. Period effect indicated that the RR of prevalence increased over time, whereas the RR of mortality and DALYs decreased in men but increased in women. The cohort effect exhibited that the more recent birth cohort had a higher RR than the previous cohort in prevalence. We projected that ASPR, ASMR, and ASDR would stabilize with little variation over the next decade.

CONCLUSION

The global burden of ILDs remains relatively severe, especially among older adults, in low- and middle-SDI regions. Effective measurements are expected to improve this situation.

Rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease combined with pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia in a patient with single anti-TIF-1γ antibody positive dermatomyositis in the context of an underlying tumor

BACKGROUND

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a frequently observed comorbidity in autoimmune diseases such as dermatomyositis/polymyositis (DM/PM), and it is significantly associated with specific autoantibody types. One unique antibody type is the anti-transcription intermediate factor-1γ antibody (anti-TIF-1γ Ab), which has a positive rate of only 7%. It is often found in combination with malignancy and rarely with ILD, particularly rapidly progressive ILD (RPILD). In some cases, the presence of ILD in individuals with DM may indicate a paraneoplastic syndrome. Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) typically occurs due to intensive immunosuppressive therapy, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, or malignancy, and rarely as an isolated condition.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 52-year-old man with a history of rapid weight loss but non-HIV infected and not immunosuppressed who presented with fever, cough, dyspnea, weakness of the extremities, characteristic rash and mechanic's hand. Pathogenic tests suggested PJP, laboratory tests suggested a single anti-TIF-1γ Ab positive DM, imaging suggested ILD, and pathology revealed no malignancy. RPILD and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) developed after anti-infection and steroid hormone therapy. After mechanical support therapy such as Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), the patient developed late-onset cytomegalovirus pneumonia (CMVP), complicated bacterial infection, and ultimately death. Additionally, we discuss the potential causes of rapid weight loss, the mechanisms by which anti-TIF-1γ Ab may lead to ILD, and the possible connection between anti-TIF-1γ Ab positivity, rapid weight loss, immune abnormalities, and opportunistic infections.

CONCLUSIONS

This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition of malignant tumors and pulmonary lesions, assessment of the body's immune status, prompt initiation of immunosuppressive treatment, and prevention of opportunistic infections in individuals with single anti-TIF-1γ Ab positive DM presenting with rapid weight loss.

Myositis interstitial lung disease and autoantibodies

The aim of this review is to examine and evaluate published literature associated with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) based on myositis specific autoantibodies (MSA) and the potential clinical significance of each autoantibody subtype for the practicing clinician. The review is a comprehensive search of literature published in PubMed from the year 2005 and onward coinciding with the surge in the discovery of new MSAs. Additionally, we comment on recommended multidisciplinary longitudinal care practices for patients with IIM-ILD with regard to imaging and other testing. Treatment is not covered in this review.

Incidence and prevalence of interstitial lung diseases worldwide: a systematic literature review

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a collective term representing a diverse group of pulmonary fibrotic and inflammatory conditions. Due to the diversity of ILD conditions, paucity of guidance and updates to diagnostic criteria over time, it has been challenging to precisely determine ILD incidence and prevalence. This systematic review provides a synthesis of published data at a global level and highlights gaps in the current knowledge base. Medline and Embase databases were searched systematically for studies reporting incidence and prevalence of various ILDs. Randomised controlled trials, case reports and conference abstracts were excluded. 80 studies were included, the most described subgroup was autoimmune-related ILD, and the most studied conditions were rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-associated ILD, systemic sclerosis associated (SSc) ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The prevalence of IPF was mostly established using healthcare datasets, whereas the prevalence of autoimmune ILD tended to be reported in smaller autoimmune cohorts. The prevalence of IPF ranged from 7 to 1650 per 100 000 persons. Prevalence of SSc ILD and RA ILD ranged from 26.1% to 88.1% and 0.6% to 63.7%, respectively. Significant heterogeneity was observed in the reported incidence of various ILD subtypes. This review demonstrates the challenges in establishing trends over time across regions and highlights a need to standardise ILD diagnostic criteria.PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020203035.

Diagnosis and treatment of interstitial lung disease related to systemic autoimmune myopathies: a narrative review

Systemic autoimmune myopathies (SAMs) are rare diseases that lead to muscle inflammation and may be associated with a variety of systemic manifestations. Although there is great heterogeneity in the spectrum of extra-muscular involvement in SAMs, interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the most frequent lung manifestation. SAM-related ILD (SAM-ILD) presents significant variations according to geographic location and temporal trends and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Several myositis autoantibodies have been discovered over the last decades, including antibodies targeting aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase enzymes, which are associated with a variable risk of developing ILD and a myriad of other clinical features. In this review, the most relevant topics regarding clinical manifestations, risk factors, diagnostic tests, autoantibodies, treatment, and prognosis of SAM-ILD are highlighted. We searched PubMed for relevant articles published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish from January 2002 to September 2022. The most common SAM-ILD patterns are nonspecific interstitial pneumonia and organizing pneumonia. The combination of clinical, functional, laboratory, and tomographic features is usually sufficient for diagnostic confirmation, without the need for additional invasive methods. Glucocorticoids remain the first-line treatment for SAM-ILD, although other traditional immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine, mycophenolate, and cyclophosphamide have demonstrated some efficacy and, therefore, have an important role as steroid-sparing agents.

"Management of myositis associated interstitial lung disease"

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are rare disorders characterised by the presence of skeletal muscle inflammation, with interstitial lung disease (ILD) being the most frequent pulmonary manifestation. The spectrum of clinical presentations of myositis related ILD (M-ILD) encompasses a chronic process to a rapidly progressive ILD (RP-ILD); which is associated with a high mortality rate. The most effective treatments remain controversial and poses a unique challenge to both rheumatologists and respiratory physicians to manage. Given the rare heterogenous nature of M-ILD, there is a paucity of data to guide treatment. The cornerstone of existing treatments encompasses combinations of immunosuppressive therapies, as well as non-pharmacological therapies. In this review, we aim to summarize the current pharmacological therapies (including its dosing regimens and side effects profiles) and non-pharmacological therapies. Based on the existing literature to date, we propose a treatment algorithm for both chronic M-ILD and RP-ILD.

A 24-Year-Old Woman With Cough, Arthralgia, and Skin Ulcerations

CASE PRESENTATION

A 24-year-old Senegalese woman without remarkable history except anemia and iron deficiency related to excessive menstrual bleeding and sickle cell trait was admitted to our internal medicine department with 4-month fever, weight loss (-13 kg), dyspnea for limited efforts, intermittent productive cough, and bilateral metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and interphalangeal arthralgia. She was born and lived in France. She traveled previously to Senegal in 2015. She had no history of tobacco, alcohol, or drug use nor proximity with animals. She was taking no medication.

Intravenous cyclophosphamide improves functional outcomes in interstitial lung disease related to idiopathic inflammatory myopathies

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy, toxicity and glucocorticoid (GC)-sparing effects of intravenous cyclophosphamide (iv CYC) with other immunosuppressive regimes as the induction treatment for Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathy-Related Interstitial Lung Disease (IIM-ILD).

METHODS

Observational comparative study of patients with IIM-ILD from the EPIMAR and Cruces cohorts. The main efficacy outcome was a 6 to 12-month improvement >10% in the forced vital capacity (FVC) from baseline.

RESULTS

Overall, 47 patients were included: 22 (47%) in the CYC group and 25 (53%) in the non-CYC group (32% azathioprine, 28% GC alone, 20% mycophenolate, 16% calcineurin-inhibitors and methotrexate and 4% rituximab). 81% patients were female with a mean age of 50.4 years. FVC improvement was achieved by 64% patients in the CYC group vs. 32% in the non-CYC group (p = 0.03). In the logistic regression model, CYC was identified as the only independent predictor of FVC improvement (OR=3.97, 95% CI 1.07-14.75). Patients in the CYC group received more methyl-prednisolone pulses (MP) (59% vs. 28% in the non-CYC group, p = 0.03), less initial GCs doses >30 mg/d (19% vs. 77%, p = 0.001) and lower 6-month average doses of prednisone (11 mg/d vs. 31.1 mg/d, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

iv CYC showed better functional outcomes than other immunosuppressants in IIM-ILD. The additional use of MP is likely to potentiate the effects of CYC and allows lowering prednisone doses. Therefore, CYC in combination with MP could be considered as the first line induction therapy in IIM-ILD, without limiting its use to rapidly progressive, life-threatening or refractory disease.

Skin disorders and interstitial lung disease: Part II-The spectrum of cutaneous diseases with lung disease association

Part 2 of this 2-part CME introduces dermatologists to noninfectious inflammatory skin diseases associated with pulmonary involvement. In many cases, dermatologists may be the first physicians recognizing respiratory complications associated with these diagnoses. Because pulmonary involvement is often the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, dermatologists should be comfortable screening and monitoring for lung disease in high-risk patients, recognizing cutaneous stigmata of lung disease in these patients and referring to pulmonary specialists, when appropriate, for prompt treatment initiation. Some treatments used for skin disease may not be appropriate in the context of lung disease and hence, choosing a holistic approach is important. Interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension are the most common pulmonary complications and a significant cause of mortality in autoimmune connective tissue diseases, especially systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, and mixed connective tissue disease. Pulmonary complications, notably interstitial lung disease, are also common and life-threatening in sarcoidosis and vasculitis, while they are variable in neutrophilic and autoimmune blistering diseases.

Interstitial lung disease associated with inflammatory myositis: Autoantibodies, clinical phenotypes, and progressive fibrosis

Progressive pulmonary fibrosis is generally diagnosed when interstitial lung disease progression occurs in the absence of any other cause, and a subset of patients with myositis and associated interstitial lung disease may develop progressive pulmonary fibrosis. Numerous autoantibodies (e.g., against tRNA-synthetase, MDA5, Ro52) increase the risk of this clinical feature in myositis and we speculate that serum biomarkers, sought using the most sensitive laboratory techniques available (i.e., immunoprecipitation) may predict pulmonary involvement and allow the early identification of progressive pulmonary fibrosis. We herein provide a narrative review of the literature and also present original data on pulmonary fibrosis in a cohort of patients with myositis and serum anti-Ro52 with interstitial lung disease. Our results fit into the previous evidence and support the association between anti-Ro52 and signs of pulmonary fibrosis in patients with inflammatory myositis. We believe that the combination of available and real-life data has significant clinical relevance as a paradigm of serum autoantibodies that prove useful in determining precision medicine in rare connective tissue diseases.

[Profiles of autoimmune myositis with or without pulmonary involvement: A retrospective single-center study of 40 patients]

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IMM) are rare diseases with clinico-biological heterogeneity. Pulmonary involvement is frequent and associated with some distinctive manifestations. The aim of this study was to describe the clinico-biological profile of patients with autoimmune myositis with and without pulmonary involvement.

METHODS

This retrospective descriptive study included patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies and a positive antibody test performed at Grenoble Alpes University Hospital between 2010 and 2020.

RESULTS

Forty patients were included, the majority were women. The anti-Jo1 autoantibody was the most frequently found (37.5%). The prevalence of pulmonary involvement was 70%. Mechanics' hands and Raynaud's syndrome were the extra-respiratory signs significantly more present in the group with lung involvement (P <0.05), in contrast to creatine kinase levels which were lower in this group (P <0.05). Glucocorticoids and rituximab were significantly more often used in the group with lung involvement (P <0.05). The 5-year survival rate was 76.2% in patients with lung involvement and 100% in patients without lung involvement (P=0.50).

CONCLUSION

We report a high prevalence of lung involvement probably explained by the presence of many patients with anti-synthetase syndrome. Our study highlights a lower severity of muscle involvement in myositis patients with lung disease, which deserves to be confirmed in a larger study.

Lung transplantation for anti-MDA5-positive dermatomyositis-associated rapid progressive interstitial lung disease: report of two cases and review of the literature

Lung transplantation is an ultimate lifesaving treatment for many patients with end-stage lung disease, whereas whether it is an optional intervention for the anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (anti-MDA5)-positive dermatomyositis (DM)-associated rapid progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) remain controversial. We report two patients diagnosed with anti-MDA5-positive DM-associated RP-ILD, who were both bridging to lung transplant with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) after failing to respond to extensive immunosuppressants. The first patient received full rehabilitation, but the second patient died of DM flare at the early-stage post-lung transplantation. Most of the clinical information was parallel in these two patients except the anti-MDA5 antibody level, which gradually decreased and became negative in the first patient but always hovering in high titers in the second patient, although both of the two patients received standard immunosuppressive regimen for prevention of rejection after lung transplantation. A total of 11 patients with anti-MDA5-positive DM-associated RP-ILD who underwent lung transplantation from the literature were identified. Most patients (10/11, 90.1%) were successfully discharged and without DM flare during the follow-up period post-lung transplantation. Nine of them were followed up more than 1 year, and anti-MDA-5 antibody was reported to be negative in four patients, whereas the others were unavailable. Combined with the case series in the literature, our limited experience suggests that lung transplantation is a promising therapeutic option for end-stage patients with anti-MDA5-positive DM-associated RP-ILD, with ECMO as a bridge to lung transplantation, if necessary. However, clearance or a downtrend of anti-MDA5 antibody may be required pre-transplant to avoid DM flare and recurrent RP-ILD post-transplantation.

Clinical value of plasmablasts in predicting disease relapse in patients with IgG4-related disease

OBJECTIVES

To explore the value of plasmablasts in predicting disease relapse in IgG4-related diseases (IgG4-RD).

METHODS

Treatment-naïve IgG4-RD patients treated with glucocorticoid (GC) monotherapy or leflunomide (LEF) and GC combination therapy diagnosed at the Chinese PLA General Hospital during February 2017 and January 2018 were included in this study. The absolute plasmablast count was measured by using the absolute count tubes with flow cytometry. Patients were categorized into high and low plasmablast level groups by defining the median number of plasmablasts as the cut-off value. The characteristics of the clinical manifestations between the two groups were compared. In addition, the correlation of plasmablast count with other indicators and its clinical value in predicting disease relapse were evaluated.

RESULTS

Data of 37 treatment-naïve IgG4-RD patients were analyzed. The median (IQR) absolute count of plasmablasts was 4.0 (2.8-7.5)/μL, which was correlated with the lymphocyte percentage, serum IgG, IgG4, and IgG4/IgG. The baseline absolute count of plasmablasts was an independent risk factor for disease relapse in IgG4-RD patients (HR, 1.199; 95% CI, 1.030-1.396, P = 0.019), and the application of LEF was an independent protective factor (HR, 0.283; 95% CI, 0.106-0.759, p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study preliminarily indicated that baseline absolute plasmablast count may independently predict disease relapse in patients with IgG4-RD treated with GC monotherapy or LEF and GC combination therapy. More efforts are still needed to be performed in the future. Key Points • The absolute count of plasmablasts is correlated with the lymphocyte percentage, serum IgG, IgG4 and IgG4/IgG. • The baseline absolute plasmablast count may predict disease relapse in patients with IgG4-RD treated with GC monotherapy or LEF and GC combination therapy. • The application of LEF is an independent protective factor for disease relapse in IgG4-RD.

Evolution of Seronegative Inflammatory Myositis to Dermatomyositis With Characteristic Cutaneous Features: A Case Report

Dermatomyositis (DM) is a rare inflammatory myopathy with an incidence of 9.63 per 1 000 000 people and typically presents with skin rash and muscle weakness. We report a case of DM that presented with proximal muscle weakness, normal creatine phosphokinase (CPK), negative myositis antibody panel, and non-specific histopathological findings on muscle biopsy, without initial skin involvement. A 67-year-old male presented with subacute bilateral proximal lower-extremity weakness and weight loss of 20 pounds over 3 months. Laboratory investigation was significant for elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, CPK, and aldolase, with negative myositis-specific antibodies. Femur magnetic resonance imaging revealed subcutaneous, fascial, and muscle edema throughout quadriceps and gluteal muscles. Muscle biopsy showed myofiber atrophy with perivascular and endomysial T-lymphocytes and histiocytes, as well as scattered necrotic myofibers. He was diagnosed with inflammatory myositis and started on prednisone and monthly IVIG infusions. At 2-month follow-up, he reported new rashes on the extensor surfaces of the hands consistent with Gottron's papules, mechanic's hands, and livedo reticularis of feet and arms. Cases of DM that present with myopathy and later develop skin changes are rare. Our patient had several months of progressive proximal muscle weakness, and skin changes occurred after he was started on treatment. Laboratory findings include elevated CPK, aldolase, and myositis-specific auto-antibodies. Muscle biopsy helps in diagnosis; however, findings may be nonspecific-as was the case in our patient. Corticosteroids are first-line treatment. Long-term follow-up studies are necessary to better understand the incidence of late-onset development of typical skin findings.

Delphi-Based Consensus on Interstitial Lung Disease Screening in Patients with Connective Tissue Diseases (Croatian National-Based Study)

The aim of this study was to develop a Croatian Delphi-based expert consensus for screening interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with connective tissue disease (CTD). A systematic literature review was conducted on risk factors for the development of ILD, prevalence and incidence of ILD, diagnostic and screening methods for ILD, and prognosis of ILD in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM), mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and systemic sclerosis (SSc) were performed. Based on the evidence found, experts developed questionnaires for screening and monitoring ILD in each CTD, which were provided via an online survey. Following the electronic survey, two screening algorithms were developed based on the consensus opinions. The detection strategy for ILD included high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in addition to pulmonary function testing for IIM, MCTD, and SSc. and pulmonary function testing for newly diagnosed pSS, RA and SLE. However, in patients with identified risk factors for ILD HRCT, these tests should also be performed. A screening strategy for early identification of patients with various CTD-ILD was first developed by a multidisciplinary team of rheumatologists, pulmonologists, and radiologists to identify early CTD patients at risk of ILD, a severe extra-articular manifestation of CTD.

Clinical and Radiological Features of Interstitial Lung Diseases Associated with Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis are autoimmune idiopathic systemic inflammatory diseases, characterized by various degrees of muscle inflammation and typical cutaneous lesions-the latter found in dermatomyositis. The underlying pathogenesis is characterized by a high level of uncertainty, and recent studies suggest diseases may have different immunopathological mechanisms. In polymyositis, components of the cellular immune system are involved, whereas in dermatomyositis, the pathogenesis is mainly mediated by the humoral immune response. The interstitial lung disease occurs in one-third of polymyositis and dermatomyositis patients associated with worse outcomes, showing an estimated excess mortality rate of around 40%. Lung involvement may also appear, such as a complication of muscle weakness, mainly represented by aspiration pneumonia or respiratory insufficiency. The clinical picture is characterized, in most cases, by progressive dyspnea and non-productive cough. In some cases, hemoptysis and chest pain are found. Onset can be acute, sub-acute, or chronic. Pulmonary involvement could be assessed by High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT), which may identify early manifestations of diseases. Moreover, Computed Tomography (CT) appearances can be highly variable depending on the positivity of myositis-specific autoantibodies. The most common pathological patterns include fibrotic and cellular nonspecific interstitial pneumonia or organizing pneumonia; major findings observed on HRCT images are represented by consolidations, ground-glass opacities, and reticulations. Other findings include honeycombing, subpleural bands, and traction bronchiectasis. In patients having Anti-ARS Abs, HRCT features may develop with consolidations, ground glass opacities (GGOs), and reticular opacities in the peripheral portions; nonspecific interstitial pneumonia or nonspecific interstitial pneumonia mixed with organizing pneumonia have been reported as the most frequently encountered patterns. In patients with anti-MDA5 Abs, mixed or unclassifiable patterns are frequently observed at imaging. HRCT is a sensitive method that allows one not only to identify disease, but also to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and detect disease progression and/or complications; however, radiological findings are not specific. Therefore, aim of this pictorial essay is to describe clinical and radiological features of interstitial lung diseases associated with polymyositis and dermatomyositis, emphasizing the concept that gold standard for diagnosis and classification-should be based on a multidisciplinary approach.

Diagnosis and Management of Cutaneous Manifestations of Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases

The cutaneous features of autoimmune connective tissue disease pose a unique challenge to patients and clinicians managing these conditions. In this review, we outline the key elements of diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, and morphea. This article also aims to present an update on gold standard as well as new and emerging therapies for these conditions. Overall, dermatologists can play a key role in diagnosing and treating autoimmune connective tissue diseases and this review intends to provide an up-to-date toolkit to guide clinical dermatologists in this endeavor.

Roles of biomarkers in anti-MDA5-positive dermatomyositis, associated interstitial lung disease, and rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease

BACKGROUND

Anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5)-positive dermatomyositis (MDA5⁺ DM) is significantly associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD), especially rapidly progressive ILD (RPILD) due to poor prognosis, resulting in high mortality rates. However, the pathogenic mechanism of MDA5⁺ DM-RPILD is unclear. Although some MDA5⁺ DM patients have a chronic course of ILD, many do not develop RPILD. Therefore, the related biomarkers for the early diagnosis, disease activity monitoring, and prediction of the outcome of RPILD in MDA5⁺ DM patients should be identified. Blood-based biomarkers are minimally invasive and can be easily detected.

METHODS

Recent relative studies related to blood biomarkers in PubMed were reviewed.

RESULTS

An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that dysregulated expression of blood biomarkers related to ILD such as ferritin, Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6), surfactant protein-D (SP-D), and cytokines, and some tumor markers in MDA5⁺ DM may provide information in disease presence, activity, treatment response, and prognosis. These studies have highlighted the great potentials of blood biomarker values for MDA5⁺ DM-ILD and MDA5⁺ DM-RPILD. This review provides an overview of recent studies related to blood biomarkers, besides highlighted protein biomarkers, including antibody (anti-MDA5 IgG subclasses and anti-Ro52 antibody), genetic (exosomal microRNAs and neutrophil extracellular traps related to cell-free DNA), and immune cellular biomarkers in MDA5⁺ DM, MDA5⁺ DM-ILD, and MDA5⁺ DM-RPILD patients, hopefully elucidating the pathogenesis of MDA5⁺ DM-ILD and providing information on the early diagnosis, disease activity monitoring, and prediction of the outcome of the ILD, especially RPILD.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, this review may provide insight to guide treatment decisions for MDA5⁺ DM-RPILD patients and improve outcomes.

Serum MUC5AC protein levels are correlated with the development and severity of connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary interstitial lesions

Background

Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) and mucin 5B (MUC5B) are the major components of airway mucins. The expression levels of MUC5AC and MUC5B are related to connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD) in the promoter region of MUC5AC and MUC5B and the relevant bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. However, the serum protein levels of MUC5AC and MUC5B have not been tested in CTD-ILD patients. In this study, we tested the serum levels of MUC5AC and MUC5B proteins in CTD-ILD patients and assessed their relationship with the occurrence and development of ILD.

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from 168 CTD and 80 healthy participants from the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University. The serum levels of MUC5AC and MUC5B proteins were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Of the 168 individuals with CTD, 70 had primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS), 64 had systemic sclerosis (SSc), and 34 had polymyositis/dermatomyositis (PM/DM). There were 116 cases with concurrent ILD; ILD scores were 1 (n=23), 2 (n=41), and 3 (n=52). Serum MUC5AC and MUC5B protein levels were considerably higher in CTD-ILD than CTD-only individuals or healthy controls (both p&lt;0.005). Among the CTD subgroups, MUC5AC was higher in individuals with concurrent ILD than in those without ILD (all p&lt;0.05). MUC5AC was positively correlated with ILD severity in all three CTD subgroups (all R&gt;0.47 and all p&lt;0.05). The MUC5B levels varied substantially between SSc and SSc patients with concurrent ILD (p=0.032) and were related to ILD severity only in PM/DM patients (R=0.346 and p=0.045).

Conclusion

MUC5AC is correlated with the occurrence and development of ILD, while MUC5B is associated with ILD diagnosis and severity in CTD subgroups. Serum MUC5AC levels present a definite diagnostic utility for CTD-ILD and as proxies for its severity.

The associations between myositis autoantibodies and clinical presentations in dermatomyositis

BACKGROUND

The myositis autoantibodies have been widely used clinically in recent years for the identification of an autoantibody-associated clinical phenotype in dermatomyositis (DM) patients. However, correlations between myositis autoantibodies and clinical presentations in different populations are lacking, especially in Taiwan.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the correlations among cutaneous manifestations, myositis autoantibodies, and systemic diseases, including interstitial lung disease (ILD) and internal malignancy.

METHODS

A retrospective study of patients with histopathologically confirmed cutaneous manifestations of DM was conducted during 2005 to 2020 in Taiwan. A commercial line blot immunoassay technique was used to detect myositis autoantibodies.

RESULTS

A total of 88 DM patients were enrolled, with a mean age of onset of 49.4 years old. The most common systemic features were myositis (56.8%, 50/88), internal malignancy (22.7%, 20/88), dysphagia (19.3%, 17/88), and ILD (17%, 15/88). Among the enrolled patients, 32 patients received serum myositis autoantibodies examination. The most common autoantibodies were ANA (50.7%, 37/73), followed by anti-TIF1-γ (34.4%, 11/32) and anti-MDA5 (31.3%, 10/32) antibodies. Patients with Gottron sign (OR 5.6), arthritis (OR 23.35), or the presence of anti-MDA5 antibody (OR 11.14) were more susceptible to progressing to ILD, whereas patients with pruritus (OR 1.04), dysphagia (OR 6.73), and the presence of ANA (OR 6.29) had significantly higher risks of developing internal malignancies.

CONCLUSIONS

Physicians should pay special attention to certain clinical features, which can help with the early detection of systemic diseases. Cancer screening and myositis autoantibodies examination should be conducted in all DM patients if applicable.

Management of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in myositis syndromes: A practical guide for clinicians

Inflammatory myopathies are heterogeneous clinico-serological syndromes, with variable clinical manifestations. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with myositis. The clinical manifestation of myositis-ILD is heterogeneous, e.g., with acute-on-chronic presentations, as well as the chronic aftermath of acute disease. Here, we have largely divided myositis-ILD into three main prognostic groups which require different treatment approaches: mild-moderate (subacute), severe or progressive (acute or subacute) and rapidly progressive, life-threatening. In current clinical practice, the treatment of myositis-ILD involves immunomodulation in an induction-maintenance treatment paradigm. There is now an option to add antifibrotics to slow the progression of established fibrosis in selected cases with chronic progressive phenotype. Here, we describe current concepts in myositis-ILD and aim to provide a practical guide for clinicians on how to approach assessment, including early identification of ILD, phenotyping of patients according to clinical trajectory and likely prognosis and stratified management adopting multi-disciplinary cross-speciality expertise, with close collaboration between rheumatology and respiratory physicians.

Resistin Expression Is Associated With Interstitial Lung Disease in Dermatomyositis

Objective

In the current study, we aimed to assess resistin mRNA levels in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of dermatomyositis patients with interstitial lung disease (DM-ILD) and their correlation with disease activity.

Methods

We detected resistin mRNA levels in the PBMCs of 37 DM-ILD, 8 DM patients without ILD, and 19 healthy control (HC) subjects by performing quantitative reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Associations between resistin expression levels and major clinical manifestations, laboratory examinations, and disease activity were also analyzed. In addition, resistin expression in lung specimens from patients with DM-ILD was examined via immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence.

Results

Resistin mRNA levels in PBMCs were significantly higher in DM-ILD than that in DM patients without ILD and HCs (p = 0.043, 0.014, respectively). Among these DM-ILD patients, the resistin levels were significantly elevated in those with rapidly progressive ILD than in those with chronic ILD (p = 0.012). The resistin mRNA levels in DM-ILD positively correlated with serum alanine aminotransferase (r = 0.476, p = 0.003), aspartate aminotransferase (r = 0.488, p = 0.002), lactate dehydrogenase (r = 0.397, p = 0.014), C-reactive protein (r = 0.423, p = 0.008), ferritin (r = 0.468, p = 0.003), carcinoembryonic antigen (r = 0.416, p = 0.011), carbohydrate antigen 125 (r = 0.332, p = 0.047), interleukin-18 (r = 0.600, p < 0.001), and lung visual analog scale values (r = 0.326, p = 0.048), but negatively correlated with the diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLco)% (r = −0.447, p = 0.041). Immunohistochemical analysis of resistin showed its elevated expression in the macrophages, alveolar epithelial cells, and weak fibrotic lesions from patients with DM-ILD. Immunofluorescence staining confirmed CD68+ macrophages co-express resistin.

Conclusions

Resistin levels were increased in patients with DM-ILD and associated with disease activity and ILD severity. Therefore, resistin may participate in the pathogenesis of DM-ILD and may act as a useful biomarker.