Pyopneumothorax complicating Rheumatoid Lung Disease

Abstract

Specific lung changes occur in association with rheumatoid arthritis but rheumatoid lung nodules unassociated with pneumoconiosis are rare and there are very few reports of cavitation occurring in such nodules (Sieniewicz, Martin, Moore, and

Broncho-pleural fistula complicating rheumatoid lung disease

“…The pulmonary nodules usually occur in patients with severe disease with subcutaneous nodules and high titres of rheumatoid factor. They may cavitate, and spontaneous pneumothorax may occur (Hindle and Yates, 1965;Portner and Gracie, 1966;Rubin, Gordon and Thelmo, 1967). This report documents a further interesting case.…”

Pleuro-Pulmonary Complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis

“…The presence of other RAassociated pulmonary disease, such as bronchiectasis or rheumatoid lung nodules, may predispose the patient to infection by providing a portal of entry to the pleural space-for instance through the rupture and formation of a bronchopleural fistula. 20 It may be necessary to review any prescribed immunosuppression therapy; whereas conventional wisdom dictates that treating RA reduces the risk of progressive pulmonary disease, excessive immunosuppression therapy may make treating an infection impossible. Furthermore, continuing treatment with any drug having an anti-inflammatory effect may negatively impact on the likelihood of successful pleurodesis following treatment for empyema or pneumothorax, 21,22 with talc preferable to complete pleurectomy, decortications, or other chemical agents.…”

Pulmonary Nodulosis Associated with Leflunomide Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Report of Four Cases and Review of the Literature

“…However, depending on localization, they may cause hemoptysis, bronchopleural fistula or pneumothorax. Pulmonary abscess, pneumonia and fatal interstitial lung diseases have been reported rarely during leflunomide treatment [17][18][19]. Leflunomide is an effective disease-modifying drug in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.…”