Anti-melanoma differentiation–associated gene 5 (MDA5) dermatomyositis: A concise review with an emphasis on distinctive clinical features

• Published in: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology Vol. 78; no. 4; pp. 776 - 785
• Main Authors: Kurtzman, Drew J.B., Vleugels, Ruth Ann
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-04-2018
• Subjects: dermatomyositis; interstitial lung disease; MDA5; melanoma differentiation–associated gene 5; myositis; palmar papule; ulceration; ILD; melanoma differentiation–associated gene 5; palmar papule; myositis; dermatomyositis; MDA5; CT; ulceration; DLCO; interstitial lung disease; CADM; RP-ILD; MSA; ELISA; PFT
• ISSN: 0190-9622; 1097-6787
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.12.010

Melanoma differentiation–associated gene 5 (MDA5) is a recently described autoantigen target in a subset of patients with dermatomyositis. Anti-MDA5 dermatomyositis is characterized by a unique mucocutaneous and systemic phenotype that includes cutaneous and oral ulceration, painful palmar papules, alopecia, panniculitis, arthritis, a lower incidence of myositis, and, importantly, an elevated risk of interstitial lung disease with a potentially fatal course. Because the clinical features can differ substantially from those typically observed in cutaneous dermatomyositis, the diagnosis is often overlooked, which might negatively affect patient outcomes. This review aims to familiarize the clinician with the distinctive clinical features of anti-MDA5 dermatomyositis in order to enhance its recognition and to facilitate an appropriate screening and management strategy.