Final answer:
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation that can also lead to interstitial lung disease (ILD), a serious condition affecting the lungs. Diagnosis relies on symptomatic assessment, imaging, and blood tests, while treatment involves medications and potentially surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the synovial joints and is also associated with extra-articular manifestations, including interstitial lung disease (ILD). RA-ILD can lead to lung fibrosis, causing breathlessness and coughing. Diagnosis involves symptomatic assessment, imaging through X-ray or MRI, and blood tests for RF and anti-CCP antibodies. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and possibly surgery or lung therapy.
Because RA is an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, complications such as ILD can arise when the inflammation extends beyond the joints. Management of RA-ILD is critical as it can severely impact quality of life and contribute to mortality.