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[Diffusive interstitial pulmonary fibrosis in chronic polyarthritis].
Zeitschrift Fur Rheumatologie
|May 1, 1982
Summary
Diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis affects 4.2% of rheumatoid arthritis patients, often those with advanced disease. Patients with this lung condition showed distinct blood markers and benefited from penicillamine therapy.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease.
- Pulmonary complications, including interstitial lung disease (ILD), are common in RA patients.
- Diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis (DIPF) is a significant manifestation of RA-related ILD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of DIPF in rheumatoid arthritis in-patients.
- To identify clinical and laboratory characteristics associated with DIPF in RA patients.
- To discuss etiological theories and therapeutic options for RA-associated DIPF.
Main Methods:
- Chest X-ray examinations were performed on 167 in-patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Disease severity was assessed using the Steinbrocker functional classification.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), gamma-globulin levels, hemoglobin, and hematocrit were measured.
Main Results:
- Seven cases (4.2%) of DIPF were identified.
- Patients with DIPF predominantly belonged to advanced functional classes.
- DIPF patients exhibited higher ESR and gamma-globulin levels, and lower hemoglobin and hematocrit compared to those without pulmonary changes.
Conclusions:
- Diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis is a notable complication in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Specific laboratory markers and advanced disease functional class are associated with DIPF.
- Penicillamine therapy is highlighted as a potentially important treatment option.