The incidence is 1 out of 10,000 people. There is no known prevention. A chest X-ray shows abnormalities consistent with rheumatoid lung disease. An open lung biopsy shows findings consistent with rheumatoid lung disease. A bronchoscopy with transtracheal biopsy shows findings consistent with rheumatoid lung disease.
Many people have no symptoms.
Therefore, treatment is aimed at the underlying disorder and for specific complications resulting from this disorder. Corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive therapy is sometimes indicated. The probable outcome is related to the underlying disorder. Bronchoscopy is a surgical technique for viewing the interior of the airways. Using sophisticated flexible fiber optic instruments, surgeons are able to explore the trachea, main stem bronchi, and some of the small bronchi.