Serum CCL18 is predictive for lung disease progression and mortality in systemic sclerosis.

While we accept that there is a group of ILD patients in whom a specific ILD diagnosis is not possible, despite all efforts, we wish to encourage respiratory physicians to pursue an accurate ILD diagnosis, rather than accepting a diagnosis of unclassifiable ILD without full and accurate investigation. Although this is a tempting option, particularly in the absence of ready access to MDD, it is associated with more diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty, and ultimately may delay specific treatment options.