[Interstitial lung disease].

Vasculitis and connective tissue disease are often associated with interstitial lung disease. Involvement of lung parenchyma is found in small vessel vasculitis and mostly in ANCA-associated forms such as Wegener's granulomatosis. In addition to vasculitis and connective tissue disease, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to interstitial lung disease and lung fibrosis. Diagnostic tools include measurement of auto-antibodies, lung function test, chest X-rays and computed tomography of the thorax, as well as bronchoscopy with biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage. The following article provides an overview of the clinical, histological and radiologic patterns of interstitial lung disease in vasculitis, rheumatoid arthritis and connective tissue disease. Treatment options will also be discussed.