[Examples of pulmonary changes in patients with collagen diseases]

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) may result in various different pulmonary manifestations. Thus radiology may reveal pleuritis, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema or cor pulmonale. Pulmonary function tests may disclose restrictive or obstructive disturbances frequently, as well as alveolar hypoventilation and impairment of diffusion. Relevant exemplary cases are discussed on the basis of chest X-rays and the results of clinical and pulmonary function tests. MCTD has a predilection for the pulmonary system and the diagnosis, course and treatment of this severe disease are largely determined by the pulmonary lesions.