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Updated: Jun 1, 2026
04:44
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
[Rheumatoid arthritis and interstitial lung alterations - a clear case, isn't it?]
D Franzen1, U Bürgi, A Gaspert
1Klinik für Pneumologie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zürich. daniel.franzen@usz.ch
Praxis
|May 27, 2011
Summary
Caplan syndrome (CS) involves lung nodules in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Diagnosis considers nodule size, with subtypes including classic and silicotic types, impacting differential diagnosis for respiratory symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Caplan syndrome (CS) is a specific lung manifestation associated with RA.
- Pulmonary involvement in RA can present with diverse pathologies.
Observation:
- A case of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with asymptomatic, diffuse reticulo-nodular lung parenchymal alterations was observed.
- The lung alterations showed upper lobe predominance.
- Diagnosis of Caplan syndrome (CS) was established based on these findings.
Findings:
- Caplan syndrome (CS) is classified into classic (Caplan) and silicotic types based on pulmonary nodule size.
- Patients with CS often exhibit significant radiographic or CT findings with minimal symptoms.
- Differential diagnosis for respiratory symptoms in CS patients must include infectious complications and drug toxicity.
Implications:
- Accurate classification of CS subtypes is crucial for patient management.
- Understanding the radiographic presentation aids in early diagnosis of CS in RA patients.
- Awareness of potential complications is vital for managing respiratory symptoms in RA patients with CS.
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