Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) are a group of disorders characterized by inflammation and/or fibrosis of the lung parenchyma. Autoimmune diseases are currently the main cause of ILD. As new diagnostic tools and therapeutic options become available, multidisciplinary evaluation is essential, and the rheumatologist has a leading role in decision making.

Evidence and knowledge regarding the identification, follow-up and indication of immunosuppressive and/or anti-fibrotic treatment in autoimmune-associated PIDs (Ai-PIDs) is continuously growing. In recent years, several consensuses have been developed to guide screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up strategies.

On the horizon of IPD-Ai there are still many questions to be answered as better quality evidence emerges from studies with a larger number of patients and better methodological design. In this context, an invitation arose for PANLAR members (and members of other specialties) to join forces and create the Autoimmune Interstitial Lung Disease Study Group.

 

Objectives

 

1. To expand the knowledge regarding interstitial lung disease associated with autoimmune disease in the PANLAR community.
2. To develop collaborative research to identify the behavior of this disease in our population.
3. To generate consensuses and guidelines for the adequate approach of this disease in our PANLAR region.

 

Activities

 

Currently, there are two main activities to develop.

1. Registry of patients with PID associated with autoimmune disease.
2. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PID associated with autoimmune disease.

The first project to be developed during the first year of the creation of the group will be the registry of PID associated with autoimmune disease.