Screening for ILD in RA: a survey of 1132 patients with RA

Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) can have a significant impact on the long-term outcome in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objectives: To identify patients’ experiences and unmet clinical needs. Methods: An international multidisciplinary panel of 18 ILD experts and user representatives developed an online-based survey for RA patients with and without ILD to receive self-reported data. The survey covered management strategies, including information and awareness of ILD, screening for ILD and patient9 perspectives on future directions. Results: In total, 1132 RA patients from 11 countries answered the survey; 39% were informed about ILD and 35% screened (75% by x-ray, 49% by HRCT, 49% with pulmonary function test (PFT), and 23% with respiratory symptoms). Older age, male sex, other lung comorbidities and treatments were associated with screening assessed by multivariable logistic regression (Figure). Of all, 12.4% were diagnosed with ILD. ILD diagnosis was associated with screening for symptoms (OR 1.77 (95% CI 1.06-2.94, p=0.028), PFT (OR 3.42, 95%CI 2.11-5.36, p<0.001) and HRCT (OR 7.17, 95%CI 4.16-12.34, p<0.001). Conclusion: This international patient survey shows that information about ILD provided to RA patients is frequently limited and only one third are screened for ILD.