[Interstitial lung disease: auto-antibodies in routine practice]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Pulmonology
• Immunology

Context:

• Interstitial lung disease (ILD) frequently complicates autoimmune diseases.
• Clinical, imaging (CT), and histological findings in autoimmune-associated ILD are often non-specific.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management.

Purpose:

• To review the diagnostic approach for interstitial lung disease in the context of autoimmune diseases.
• To highlight the importance of autoantibody testing and comprehensive patient history.
• To discuss the utility of various biological tests in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.

Summary:

• The non-specific nature of ILD manifestations in autoimmune diseases necessitates further investigation.
• Serum autoantibody screening is recommended after a clinical diagnosis of ILD is established.
• A detailed medical history to identify extra-thoracic autoimmune features is vital.
• The review covers diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications of immunological tests for ILD in autoimmune conditions.
• Simplified interpretations of immunological tests and emerging diagnostic tools are also discussed.

Impact:

• This review aids clinicians in the diagnostic workup of patients with suspected autoimmune-associated ILD.
• It emphasizes the integration of clinical, serological, and historical data for improved diagnostic accuracy.
• Understanding the role of immunological tests can lead to better patient outcomes and targeted therapies.