Linking pulmonary function with rheumatoid arthritis

TL;DR

This study finds that people with rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to have lung function issues, suggesting routine lung tests should be part of their care.

Contribution

The study demonstrates a strong link between RA severity and pulmonary function abnormalities using spirometry data.

Findings

RA patients had significantly higher odds of PFT abnormalities compared to controls.

Disease severity, duration, and elevated markers like RF, ACPA, and CRP were associated with lung function issues.

Abstract

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.