Like other complex diseases, autoimmune diseases are the result of many causes, including genetic and environmental factors. Some researchers believe that people who are susceptible to autoimmune disorders develop them when the body reacts to environmental or other factors by creating white blood cells that attack the body’s own tissues, which then progresses to autoimmune diseases. These immune-triggered disorders can overlap with one another to some extent, but most autoimmune diseases have certain distinct triggers.
This is an ongoing observational study conducted at the NIH to determine whether selected infectious and noninfectious environmental exposures are more common in individuals who have myositis with the antisynthetase syndrome, compared with healthy volunteers.
To find out more, contact Adam Schiffenbauer, MD at 301-451-6270.
Find more information about this trial here.
More information on other clinical trials for myositis can be found here.