Infections as a predominant cause of death in adult patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies.

Objectives: To evaluate causes of death in the single-centre Polish cohort of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) and to identify risk factors associated with fatal outcomes.

Methods: Electronic medical database was retrospectively analysed, data on the clinical symptoms, serological profiles, administered treatment and outcomes in IIM patients were collected. Two subgroups were distinguished - the deceased and the survived group.

Automatic assessment of nailfold capillaroscopy software: a pilot study.

Introduction: Capillaroscopy is a simple method of nailfold capillary imaging, used to diagnose diseases from the systemic sclerosis spectrum. However, the assessment of the capillary image is time-consuming and subjective. This makes it difficult to use for a detailed comparison of studies assessed by various physicians.

Disability in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: questionnaire-based study.

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are progressive, debilitating diseases that can lead to severe impairment. The aim of the study was to evaluate the level of disability and compare it between different subtypes of IIM as well as to estimate clinical symptoms associated with greater risk of disability and distinguish the most troublesome activities in this group of patients. A online form concerning clinical symptoms, comorbidities and limitations in daily living was created and distributed to online support groups for patients with IIM.