What is the effect of rheumatoid arthritis on the lung?
Ans. C. Exudative pleural effusionLung Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis* Most common pulmonary manifestation is pleural involvement leading to pleural friction rub and effusion.* This is due to inflammatory breakdown of pulmonary nodules.* Pleural effusions tend to be exudative with increased numbers of monocytes and neutrophils.* Interstitial lung disease. Pulmonary function testing shows a restrictive pattern (e.g. reduced total lung capacity) with a reduced diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO).* Caplan's syndrome is characterized by the development of nodules and pneumoconiosis following silica exposure.
DLco normal
CXR is normal
Exudative pleural effusion
Flow volume pattern showing an obstructive pattern
Respiratory