November 9, 2007

I Have Rheumatoid Arthritis0 Why Is My Rheumatologist So Concerned About My Lungs?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory form of arthritis. It is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects more than 2 million Americans. While the primary target for this disease is the musculoskeletal system, RA is also a systemic disease meaning that if affects internal organs. One of the most common organ systems affected is the respiratory system.
Upper airway symptoms are often caused by Sjogren0s disease, an autoimmune condition that often accompanies RA. In Sjogren0s disease, the glands that make secretions such as tears, saliva, and mucus are gradually destroyed. Since mucus is necessary for the neutralization and mobilization of bacteria, people with Sjogren0s disease often develop recurrent respiratory infections.
The lungs themselves can be involved. People with RA can develop multiple problems including fibrosis (scarring of lung tissue), pleural effusion (water on the lung), pulmonary nodules (spots on the lung), and pneumonitis (inflammation of lung tissue.)
Finally, drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis such as methotrexate, gold, and newer biologic therapies can also adversely affect the lungs.
Also, acute lower respiratory tract infections are common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, according to results of a study published in the September issue of the Journal of Rheumatology. Respiratory infections in this population […]