Shakshouk H, Deschaine MA, Wetter DA, et al. - In this retrospective analysis of patients with dermatomyositis (DM) who underwent melanoma differentiation associated (MDA)-5 antibody testing, findings corroborated some recognized links between disease manifestations and MDA-5 autoantibody status, as ascertained employing commercially available tests. Also, new associations, including Raynaud phenomenon (RP) and dysphagia, were found.

• A review of all available skin biopsy slides was performed.

• RP, cutaneous ulcerations, mechanic hands, palmar papules, oral ulcers and alopecia were the cutaneous features that were more prevalent in MDA-5-positive DM.

• In cases with MDA-5-positive DM, more common were joint and pulmonary involvement as well as dysphagia.

• MDA-5-positive DM more commonly had vasculopathy and less commonly spongiosis.