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Pulmonary function in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome
Rheumatology International
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Pulmonary function tests in primary Sjögren's syndrome revealed normal lung volumes but reduced diffusion capacity, indicating common interstitial lung disease. This reduction correlated with disease activity markers and symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Primary Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder primarily affecting exocrine glands, leading to dryness.
- Pulmonary involvement is recognized but its correlation with disease activity requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To correlate pulmonary function with clinical, hematological, and serological disease activity parameters in primary Sjögren's syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Objective pulmonary function tests were performed on 46 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.
- Evaluated parameters included lung volumes and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO).
- Correlations were sought between pulmonary function and clinical, hematological (e.g., ESR), and serological markers of disease activity.
Main Results:
- Total lung capacity, residual volume, vital capacity, functional residual capacity, and ventilatory capacity were within normal limits.
- Diffusion capacities for carbon monoxide (DLCO) were significantly reduced compared to predicted values.
- Reduced DLCO showed a statistically significant negative correlation with prior pneumonia, pleurisy, tiredness, dyspnea, ESR, and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (orosomucoid).
Conclusions:
- Pulmonary interstitial disease is a common finding in primary Sjögren's syndrome.
- Reduced diffusion capacity is associated with indicators of inflammation and clinical symptoms, suggesting its utility as a marker for disease activity.