Use of sequential DTPA clearance and high resolution computerized tomography in monitoring interstitial lung disease in dermatomyositis.

Interstitial lung disease complicating polymyositis-dermatomyositis has a grave prognosis. We report the case of a 50-yr-old woman with dermatomyositis and interstitial lung disease monitored by sequential high-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) of lung and aerosol clearance times of the radionuclide 99Technetium-diethylene triamine pentacetate (DTPA). She was treated with oral cyclophosphamide and prednisolone with good outcome. Pulmonary response to therapy was followed with sequential HRCT and DTPA scanning. DTPA clearance a measure of lung inflammation, and HRCT paralleled clinical course during the treatment of interstitial lung disease. Sequential HRCT and DTPA were useful adjuncts in the initial assessment and monitoring of interstitial lung disease in association with dermatomyositis.