RP-ILD, also known as the acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease, was defined as an acute, clinically significant respiratory deterioration characterized by evidence of new widespread alveolar abnormality on chest imaging or histopathology. It is rapidly progressive and life-threatening. Despite aggressive regular treatments with high-dose glucocorticoids in combination with immunosuppressant drugs such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus, or cyclophosphamide, the post-exacerbation mortality rates remain high. There is no confirmed drug therapy for RP-ILD. Recently, the exacerbation of interstitial lung diseases secondary to systemic diseases was proved to involve many inflammatory responses, so patients are more likely to benefit from immune regulation therapy. Tocilizumab is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the binding of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a multifunctional cytokine that regulates the immune response and inflammation, to its receptor (IL-6R). The study is designed to compare efficacy and safety of tocilizumab versus regular treatment in participants with severe RP-ILD secondary to systemic diseases.
There is no confirmed drug therapy for RP-ILD. Prognosis is poor of regular treatment. The study is designed to compare efficacy and safety of tocilizumab versus regular treatment in participants with severe RP-ILD secondary to systemic diseases.