Approach to Pulmonary Nodules in Connective Tissue Disease

Semin Respir Crit Care Med. 2024 Mar 28. doi: 10.1055/s-0044-1782656. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTThe assessment of pulmonary nodules is a common and often challenging clinical scenario. This evaluation becomes even more complex in patients with connective tissue diseases (CTDs), as a range of disease-related factors must also be taken into account. These diseases are characterized by immune-mediated chronic inflammation, leading to tissue damage, collagen deposition, and subsequent organ dysfunction. A thorough examination of nodule features in these patients is required, incorporating anatomic and functional information, along with patient demographics, clinical factors, and disease-specific knowledge. This integrated approach is vital for effective risk stratification and precise diagnosis. This review article addresses specific CTD-related factors that should be taken into account when evaluating pulmonary nodules in this patient group.PMID:38547916 | DOI:10.1055/s-0044-1782656
Source: Respiratory Care - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Source Type: research