Pulmonary Findings in Rheumatic Diseases

Abstract

Introduction: One of the affected systems in rheumatic diseases is the respiratory system. This study was carried out to investigate the pulmonary involvement findings and the respiratory function tests in rheumatic diseases. Methods: Rheumatic patients, who were requested consultation by the Bağcılar Training and Research Hospital Training and Research Hospital Department of Chest Diseases between 2015 and 2017, have been included in the study. A total of 110 patients; 64 rheumatoid arthritis, 43 ankylosing spondylitis, two psoriatic arthritis, and one Behcet were included in the study. Pulmonary involvement findings, respiratory examination findings, and pulmonary function tests (RFT) in chest X-ray and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were examined. Results: About 33.64% normal and 66.36% abnormal findings were observed in HRCT findings. Abnormal HRCT findings were found in 70% of RA patients (n=45) and in 58% of patients with AS (n=25). When RFTs were examined, 50.0% normal, 32.7% restrictive type respiratory disorder, 15.5% mixed type respiratory disorder, and 1.8% obstructive respiratory disorder were observed. Discussion and Conclusion: Pulmonary involvement with rheumatic diseases can be seen in different ways. HRCT and RFT provide information on the prevalence and grade of pulmonary disease. It leads to correct diagnosis and treatment.