Detection and Management of Interstitial Lung Diseases Associated With Connective Tissue Diseases.

ABSTRACT: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common manifestation of connective tissue diseases (CTDs). A proportion of patients with CTD-ILDs develop progressive fibrosing ILD, which is characterized by worsening fibrotic abnormalities on high-resolution computed tomography scan, decline in lung function, worsening symptoms, and early mortality. Here, we review the impact of ILD in patients with CTDs, the importance of prompt diagnosis and close monitoring, and the evidence available to guide the management of CTD-ILDs. Management of patients with CTD-ILDs should be individualized and involve close collaboration between rheumatologists and pulmonologists. Immunosuppression is the mainstay of therapy for CTDs, but evidence for its effectiveness in slowing the progression of ILD is limited. Recentl

SUBMITTER: Castelino FV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8126753 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature