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Pulmonary fibrosis associated with polymyalgia rheumatica
T Shimada1, K Matsumura, K Higashi
1Department of Internal Medicine, Kumamoto National Hospital, Ninomaru.
Abstract:
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and exacerbated pulmonary fibrosis presented concurrently in a 69-year-old woman with a 5-year history of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia. The radiographic and histological examinations suggested usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) as a more likely diagnosis. Corticosteroid therapy resulted in relief of the patient's muscle symptoms and improvement in the functional and radiographical signs of the pulmonary fibrosis. The final diagnosis was pulmonary fibrosis associated with PMR, because PMR is believed to be one of the causes contributing to interstitial lung diseases.
Insights
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and pulmonary fibrosis can occur together. Treating PMR with corticosteroids improved both muscle symptoms and lung function in a patient with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Rheumatology
- Interstitial Lung Diseases
Background:
- Idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) is a chronic lung condition.
- Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old woman with a 5-year history of IIP presented with concurrent PMR symptoms.
- Radiographic and histological findings suggested usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP).
Findings:
- Corticosteroid therapy alleviated PMR symptoms.
- The patient showed improved functional and radiographical signs of pulmonary fibrosis after treatment.
- Pulmonary fibrosis associated with PMR was diagnosed, suggesting PMR as a contributing factor to ILDs.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential link between PMR and interstitial lung diseases.
- Corticosteroids may be beneficial for managing concurrent PMR and pulmonary fibrosis.
- Further research into the relationship between PMR and ILDs is warranted.