RA-ILD: Tracking Function and CT

Conventional monitoring markers do not change before deaths in this predominantly mild cohort.

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Pulmonary function and CT measures remained stable over 24 months in patients with rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease.
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The study involved 105 patients, with 80% showing pulmonary fibrosis, though only 20% were classified as usual interstitial pneumonia.
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At 24 months, 12% of patients improved, 69% remained stable, and 19% worsened, with no significant changes in quantitative CT measures.
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Eight patients (8%) died during the study, with no preceding decline in FVC or imaging parameters noted prior to death.
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The study's findings challenge the conventional understanding of ILD, indicating mortality can occur without prior functional decline.

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