Clinical Profile of Patients with Interstitial Lung Disease with Underlying Autoimmune Rheumatic Disease Presenting to a Tertiary Care Setting: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION

Interstitial lung diseases are a diverse group of disorders that display considerable overlap clinically, physiologically, and radiologically. A significant subset of these patients has autoimmune rheumatic diseases. This study aimed to characterize the clinical profile of patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease-related interstitial lung disease, focusing on demographic features, radiographic patterns, and treatment practices.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Hospital for Advanced Medicine and Surgery in Kathmandu, Nepal, from May 2022 to May 2023. Patients with interstitial lung disease confirmed by high-resolution computed tomography and a rheumatologist-verified diagnosis of autoimmune rheumatic disease were included. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, imaging, and pulmonary function data were collected and analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients were included, comprising 28 (77.80%) females and 8 (22.20%) males, with a mean age of 58.92 ± 15.89 years. Rheumatoid arthritis was present in 18 (50%) cases, while undifferentiated systemic rheumatic disease was seen in 7 (19.44 %). Extrapulmonary manifestations were the initial presentation in 24 (66.7%) of cases. Usual interstitial pneumonia was identified in 22 (61.1%) patients. The mean forced vital capacity was 65.90 ± 25.38%, and the mean diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide was 47.22 ± 23.21%. Methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine were each used by 6 (16.70%) patients, while corticosteroids were used by 11 (30.60%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Interstitial lung disease is a significant complication of autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Early identification through regular clinical assessment and imaging is essential to prevent disease progression and improve outcomes.