Antisynthetase syndrome

As a syndrome, this condition is poorly defined. Diagnostic criteria require one or more antisynthetase antibodies (which target tRNA synthetase enzymes), and one or more of the following three clinical features: interstitial lung disease, inflammatory myopathy, and inflammatory polyarthritis affecting small joints symmetrically. Other supporting features may include fever, Raynaud's phenomenon and "mechanics hands"-thick, cracked skin usually on the palms and radial surfaces of the digits.[4]

The disease, rare as it is, is more prevalent in women than in men. Early diagnosis is difficult, and milder cases may not be detected. Also, interstitial lung disease may be the only manifestation of the disease. Severe disease may develop over time, with intermittent relapses.[5]

It is postulated that autoantibodies are formed against aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. The synthethases may be involved in recruiting antigen-presenting and inflammatory cells to the site of muscle or lung injury. The specific molecular pathway of the process awaits elucidation.[5]

In the presence of suspicious symptoms a number of test are helpful in the diagnosis:[5]

• Muscle enzymes are often elevated, i.e. creatine kinase
• Anti-Jo-1 antibody testing
• Electromyography
• Muscle biopsy
• Pulmonary function testing
• Lung biopsy

In certain situations, testing of other antibodies, specific imaging (MRI, thoracic high resolution computed tomography), and swallowing evaluation may be needed.

Unfortunately, treatment for the anti-synthetase syndrome is limited, and usually involves immunosuppressive drugs such as glucocorticoids. For patients with pulmonary involvement, the most serious complication of this syndrome is pulmonary fibrosis and subsequent pulmonary hypertension.

Additional treatment with azathioprine and/or methotrexate may be required in advanced cases.[5]

Prognosis is largely determined by the extent of pulmonary damage.