A Longitudinal Analysis of Disease Activity and Lung Function in Patients with Chronic Joint Disorders: Correlation with Disease Duration

Abstract

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects joints but can also cause significant pulmonary complications, such as interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension, leading to impaired lung function. Early identification of pulmonary involvement through pulmonary function tests (PFTs) is crucial to improving patient outcomes. This study assesses the correlation between the duration of RA and pulmonary function. Material and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences from August 2022 to January 2024, including 98 RA patients. Participants underwent clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and PFTs (FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio) at baseline, one month, and three months. Disease activity was assessed using the DAS28 score. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25, with a p-value < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Participants (mean age 40.98 ± 11.7 years) were predominantly female (80.6%). Disease activity improved over three months, with low activity increasing from 0% at admission to 38.8%. Significant improvements were observed in FEV1 (1.5 ± 0.3 to 1.7 ± 0.3 L, p < 0.001) and FEV1/FVC ratio (61.8–68.4%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Pulmonary function showed significant improvement with RA management over time, highlighting the importance of regular PFT monitoring to prevent respiratory complications.