[Immunotherapy for Inflammatory Myopathies]

Inflammatory myopathies are heterogeneous disorders characterized by muscle inflammation. They are frequently accompanied by extra-muscular manifestations that affect the skin, lungs, heart, and joints. Owing to its low prevalence, wide phenotypic heterogeneity, and variable disease course, it is difficult to make clear recommendations for the treatment of inflammatory myopathies. Corticosteroids are administered as first-line treatment based on clinical experience rather than controlled trial findings. Empirically, addition of an immunosuppressive drug might offer a steroid-sparing effect or an additional benefit. Administration of intravenous immunoglobulins has been shown to be effective as second-line treatment. Recently, there has been a growing interest in assessing the potential of several biological agents in the treatment of inflammatory myopathies. There are multiple ongoing clinical trials that will lead to more treatment options for inflammatory myopathies.