Uncovering the Clues: A Case-Based Journey Through ILD in Rheumatic Disease

This webcast provides a case-based discussion on recognizing and managing interstitial lung disease (ILD) in patients with rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and systemic sclerosis. Through real-world patient scenarios, Robert Laugherty, PA-C and Erica Ludtke, NP highlight key risk factors such as high serologic titers, age, and progressive respiratory symptoms, along with important findings like inspiratory crackles and exertional desaturation. The session emphasizes early screening with pulmonary function tests and high-resolution CT imaging, identification of fibrotic patterns like UIP, and timely initiation of immunomodulatory and antifibrotic therapies. The importance of close collaboration between rheumatology and pulmonology, early intervention, and proactive monitoring is reinforced to help slow disease progression and improve patient outcomes.