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Antisynthetase Syndrome — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

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ModerateRheumatologyAntisynthetase SyndromeRACP Adult Medicine

A 45-year-old man with no past medical history presents with a 2-week history of progressive proximal muscle weakness. His CK is 12,000 U/L. EMG shows myopathic changes. He is found to have anti-Jo-1 antibodies. What additional clinical feature should be specifically assessed?

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Correct answer: D — Interstitial lung disease

Anti-Jo-1 antibodies (anti-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase) are associated with the antisynthetase syndrome, which includes inflammatory myopathy (dermatomyositis/polymyositis), interstitial lung disease, Raynaud phenomenon, mechanic's hands, arthritis, and fever. ILD occurs in up to 70% of patients with antisynthetase syndrome and is a major determinant of morbidity and mortality. HRCT and PFTs should be performed.

Reference: eTG – 2025 – Rheumatology; ACR/EULAR – 2017 – Myositis Classification Criteria