CD19 + CD21 cells are increased in systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease.

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) represents a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The purpose of this study was to examine recirculating lymphocytes from SSc patients for potential biomarkers of interstitial lung disease (ILD). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from patients with SSc and healthy controls enrolled in the Vanderbilt University Myositis and Scleroderma Treatment Initiative Center cohort between 9/2017-6/2019.

Anti-tRNA synthetase syndrome interstitial lung disease: A single center experience.

Background: Recognition of Anti-tRNA synthetase (ARS) related interstitial lung disease (ILD) is key to ensuring patients have prompt access to immunosuppressive therapies. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to identify factors that may delay recognition of ARS-ILD.

Methods: Patients seen at Vanderbilt University Medical Center between 9/17/2017-10/31/2018 were included in this observational cohort.

A Phase I Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial of Valganciclovir in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Human herpesviruses Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus are frequently detectable in the lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and could contribute to disease pathogenesis. With the goal of inhibiting herpesvirus replication, we tested the safety and tolerability of adding valganciclovir to standard IPF therapy (pirfenidone). We performed a single-center, Phase I, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial comparing valganciclovir 900 mg daily with placebo in patients with IPF with serologic evidence of prior Epstein-Barr virus and/or cytomegalovirus infection who were tolerating full-dose pirfenidone (2,403 mg/d).