Antisynthetase syndrome - much more than just a myopathy

The aim of the study was to summarize current knowledge on antisynthetase syndrome (ASS), including its epidemiology, pathogenesis, proposed so far diagnostic criteria, heterogeneity of clinical manifestations, prognostic factors and therapeutic possibilities. PubMed database was screened for antisynthetase syndrome OR antisynthetase antibodies between February and April 2020. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases participate in the immune system activation as antigens, but also serve chemoattractive and cytokine-resembling roles, initiating innate and adaptive pathways. Exposure to various inhaled antigens may induce the autoimmune cascade leading to ASS. NK cells with its impaired INF-gamma production as well as formation of NETs by neutrophils contribute to pathogenesis. The prevalence of symptoms vary significantly depending on the study with muscular, articular and pulmonary involvement being the most frequently observed. Although classified as subtype of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, myositis may not necessarily be the prominent manifestation. Since clinical presentation is heterogeneous and symptoms can emerge gradually, ASS could be considered as a heterogeneous spectrum rather than a homogenous disease entity. The currently available classification criteria do not fully correspond with the clinical patterns of the disease. Therapy is based on glucocorticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents. Randomized controlled trials, dedicated for patients with ASS, are needed to form treatment algorithms. (C) 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Antisynthetase syndrome (ASS) is a heterogeneous disease with diverse clinical manifestations, requiring treatment based on glucocorticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents. Current classification criteria may not fully correspond with the clinical patterns of the disease.