A Cross-Sectional Study of Interstitial Lung Disease Pattern in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Background: Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) represent a significant complication in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in RA management, the prevalence and clinical profile of ILD in Indian RA populations remain understudied. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of ILD in RA patients, describe demographic and clinical characteristics, and identify potential risk factors. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Department of Pulmonary Medicine, LN Medical College, Bhopal, by enrolling a total of 84 RA patients over a period of 6 months. Data collection involved detailed history, physical examination, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest, pulmonary function tests (PFTs), and serological tests. ILD was classified based on HRCT patterns (e.g., usual interstitial pneumonia [UIP], nonspecific interstitial pneumonia [NSIP]). Results: Among the 84 patients (mean age 52.3 ± 11.4 years; 62% female), ILD was detected in 28 (33.3%). The most common HRCT pattern was UIP (46.4%), followed by NSIP (32.1%) and organizing pneumonia (21.4%). Patients with ILD had longer RA duration (mean 8.7 ± 4.2 years vs. 5.1 ± 3.6 years in non-ILD; p