WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Patricia McWalter MD and Mayada Ahmed MD

ABSTRACT

Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) can be a complication of Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), and other Connective Tissue Disorders (CTDs), and often has a poor prognosis. The cases described here show the association between ILD and SSc/CTDs in two Saudi female patients. Of interest, our first case of a younger patient with SSc, had a more severe form of ILD, whilst the older patient with Mixed Connective Tissue Disorder (MCTD) had a milder case of ILD. In a study looking at ILD in rheumatologic disorders, it was noted that ILD appeared more severe when the patient presented with predominantly SSc symptoms, which is also our observation in this case series. The diagnosis, management and future therapies of ILD are discussed. Design: This case series shows the association between ILD and SSc/MCTDs in two Saudi female patients. The study describes ILD associated with SSc of an advanced nature and the association between ILD and MCTD of a milder severity. Significance: Knowledge about ILD is essential for doctors caring for patients with SSc and MCTDs. The cases remind us to initiate an early evaluation and management of respiratory symptoms in SSc/MCTDs.

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