Clinical ultrasonography in systemic autoimmune diseases

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Systemic autoimmune diseases (SAD) affect multiple organs and structures.
• Clinical ultrasonography is a valuable diagnostic tool in internal medicine.
• SAD diagnosis and management can be challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the utility of clinical ultrasonography in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with SAD.
• To demonstrate how ultrasonography can change clinical practice for SAD patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of ultrasonography applications in various SAD.
• Description of specific ultrasonographic findings in conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, giant cell arteritis, antiphospholipid syndrome, scleroderma, and dermatomyositis.
• Emphasis on the role of internist-performed ultrasonography.

Main Results:

• Ultrasonography detects complications such as polyserositis, myocarditis, and deep vein thrombosis.
• Specific findings include salivary gland changes in Sjögren's syndrome, halo sign in giant cell arteritis, and tendon/joint inflammation.
• Quantification of pulmonary hypertension in scleroderma and assessment of interstitial lung disease in dermatomyositis are possible.

Conclusions:

• Clinical ultrasonography is a useful complementary examination for SAD.
• It aids in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of patients with systemic autoimmune diseases.
• Ultrasonography enhances the medical history and clinical practice for internists managing SAD.