Ultrasound in the interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. Can it facilitate a best routine assessment in rheumatic disorders?

Clin Rheumatol. 2016 Oct;35(10):2387-95. doi: 10.1007/s10067-016-3329-3. Epub 2016 Jun 21.

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) is increasing its potential in the assessment of several rheumatic disorders. Recently, different applications of this imaging technique have emerged. Interesting data supporting its utility and validity in the assessment of the lung to detect and quantify interstitial pulmonary fibrosis in rheumatic diseases, even in subclinical phases, have been reported. The main purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the role of US in the assessment of interstitial pulmonary fibrosis in rheumatic disorders and to discuss the current evidence supporting its clinical relevance in daily clinical practice.

Keywords: Interstitial pulmonary fibrosis; Rheumatic disorders; Ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Diseases, Interstitial / complications
  • Lung Diseases, Interstitial / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis / complications
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Rheumatic Diseases / complications
  • Rheumatic Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Symptom Assessment
  • Ultrasonography