Linking pulmonary function with rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that frequently leads to pulmonary involvement, contributing to morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is of interest to assess pulmonary function in 100 participants (50 RA patients and 50 controls) using spirometry. RA patients showed significantly higher odds of pulmonary function test (PFT) abnormalities, including FVC%, FEV1%, PEFR% and FEF 25-75%. A higher disease severity, longer disease duration and elevated serological markers (RF, ACPA, CRP) were strongly associated with these abnormalities. Routine spirometry should be incorporated into RA management for early detection and improved outcomes.