Microecology and Immunity in Patients With Anti-MDA5 Antibody Positive Dermatomyositis and Interstitial Lung Disease

This observational study examines gut bacteria (microbiome) and immune responses in patients with a specific type of inflammatory muscle disease (anti-MDA5 antibody-positive dermatomyositis) that is associated with rapid, life-threatening lung scarring. **You may be eligible if...** - You have been diagnosed with dermatomyositis and test positive for anti-MDA5 antibodies - You also have rapidly progressing interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with this condition - You have undergone a procedure called bronchoalveolar lavage (a lung wash for testing) - You are 18 or older and have given consent to participate **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have other connective tissue or autoimmune diseases - Your lung disease is caused by an infection, tumor, or medication rather than dermatomyositis - You are pregnant or breastfeeding - You are currently participating in another clinical trial Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.