20th February 2025

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies

This group of diseases includes polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM).

ILD features often in patients with these conditions, more commonly in those with anti-synthetase antibodies (including anti-Jo) or anti-MDA5 antibodies.

Clinical features include dyspnoea, cough, joint pain and fevers, with fine bibasal crackles on examination.

Early treatment is recommended in ILD associated with PM/DM to prevent disease progression. Steroids are often used. Other options include rituximab, however this should be discussed with a rheumatology specialist.