MDA5 antibody-associated dermato-pulmonary syndrome is a subtype of dermatomyositis that is associated with rapid progression of interstitial lung disease and death.
Visual keys:
- PALMAR painful papules and ulcerations
- Seen here as red paint on the palm
- At first thought to be more common in Asian populations, however now discovered in a variety of demographics. Rapidly-progressive lung disease does seem to be more common among MDA-5 carriers of Asian descent, however.
- Associated with interstitial lung disease
- Seen here with the medical mask on the painter
- MDA-5 can also be remembered as “Massively Damaged Airways”
Med-Derm, MD 