Anti-Synthetase Syndrome — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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HardConnective Tissue & VasculitisAnti-Synthetase SyndromeSCE Dermatology

A patient has clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis with ulcerated palmar papules, painful oral ulcers and rapidly progressive breathlessness. Which antibody is most strongly associated with this phenotype?

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Correct answer: A — Anti-MDA5

Anti-MDA5 dermatomyositis is associated with ulcerative or vasculopathic skin disease and rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease, sometimes with little muscle weakness. The respiratory features require urgent high-resolution imaging and specialist treatment.

Reference: https://academic.oup.com/bjd/pages/bad-guidelines