PLEURO-PULMONARY MANIFESTATIONS IN CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISORDERS IN SUDANESE PATIENTS: CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Connective Tissue Disorders (CTDs) frequently affect the respiratory system, with complications such as interstitial lung disease (ILD), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and pleural effusions being major contributors to morbidity and mortality. This study investigates the prevalence and patterns of pulmonary manifestations in Sudanese patients with CTDs and evaluates diagnostic correlations using pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Material and Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 75 CTDs patients presenting with respiratory symptoms at hospitals in Khartoum, Sudan. Data collection included clinical evaluations, PFTs, HRCT scans, and laboratory investigations. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the prevalence of pulmonary complications and their correlations with CTDs subtypes. Results. ILD was the most common manifestation, with an overall prevalence of 36%, particularly high in scleroderma (75%) and MCTD (60%). Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was observed in 4%, primarily in systemic lupus erythematosus (9.5%). PFT abnormalities were common, with restrictive defects dominating in MCTD (100%) and scleroderma (87.5%). HRCT findings included reticulonodular lesions (14.7%), honeycombing (12%), pleural effusions (8%), and bronchiectasis (4%). Statistically significant differences in pulmonary complications were observed across CTDs subtypes. Conclusion. Pulmonary manifestations are prevalent in Sudanese CTDs patients, with ILD being the predominant complication. Early and systematic screening using PFTs and HRCT is crucial for timely detection and management. These findings highlight the need for enhanced multidisciplinary care and further research into regional variations in CTD-related pulmonary diseases.