Innovations in the Care of chILD Associated with Connective Tissue
Disease and Immune Mediated Disorders
Abstract
Childhood interstitial lung disease associated with connective tissue
disease and immune mediated is the second most common chILD diagnostic
category. As knowledge of the molecular and genetic underpinnings of
these rare disorders advances, the recognized clinical spectrum of
pulmonary manifestations that can be associated with them continues to
broaden. This review will focus on chILD and other pulmonary
complications associated with primary immune disorders, namely monogenic
inborn errors of immunity as well as acquired systemic autoimmune and
autoinflammatory diseases. Pulmonary complications, including ILD in
these diseases can confer increased risk for morbidity and mortality and
can be complex to manage due to the multiple organ systems that can be
impacted in these systemic disorders. Thankfully, pulmonologists do not
have to work alone. These diseases often have stereotypical patterns of
extra-pulmonary features which aid in their recognition. In
collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of subspecialists, the
pulmonary and other systemic manifestations can be managed effectively
together. The goal of this review is to familiarize the reader with the
distinct patterns of ILD and associated systemic/immunologic features
that are characteristic of monogenic inborn errors of immunity and
systemic autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. In addition, this
review will highlight current, emergent and innovative therapeutic
strategies and will underscore the important role of multidisciplinary
management to improving outcomes for these patients.