Key clinical point: The incidence of rheumatoid arthritis-related bronchiectasis (RA-BR) was almost 20%, suggesting that bronchiectasis is a common extra-articular feature of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Major finding: The pooled overall prevalence of RA-BR was 18.7% (95% CI 13.7%-24.3%) in the random effects meta-analysis and 22.6% (95% CI 16.8%-29.0%) in studies that used high-resolution chest computed tomography imaging.
Study details : Findings are from a systematic review and meta-analysis of 41 studies that reported on RA-BR prevalence, risk factors, or both.
Disclosures: The study did not receive any external funding. Dr. Sparks, Dr. Doyle, and Dr. Shadick reported receiving research support and consultancy fees from various sources.
Source: Martin LW et al. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2021 Aug 20. doi: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2021.08.005 .