Authors: Fikret Kanat Funda Levendoglu Turgut Teke
Publish Date: 2006/10/07
Volume: 27, Issue: 5, Pages: 459-466
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate the findings of high resolution computed tomography HRCT and pulmonary function tests PFT in the rheumatoid arthritis RA patients with and without pulmonary symptoms and to determine their role in prediction of respiratory system involvement Among 54 consecutive RA patients 22 41 were symptomatic and 32 59 were asymptomatic after detailed respiratory examination Abnormal findings in PFTs were present in 10 45 symptomatic and 15 47 asymptomatic patients PFT results were similar in both groups A total of 18 82 symptomatic and 16 50 asymptomatic patients had abnormalities in HRCT scans About 16 80 of 20 patients with normal HRCT scans had no pulmonary symptoms at all and we noted a significant correlation P 005 HRCT was more useful mean than PFTs in evaluation of pulmonary involvement in the RA patients however no correlation was present between various respiratory symptoms and abnormal findings both in PFTs and HRCT scans
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