Investigating lung disease in early rheumatoid arthritis patients

Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Lung Disease Study

Observational University of Nebraska · NCT03192267

This study is trying to see how common lung disease is in people who have just been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and if certain markers in their blood can help predict lung problems.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages19 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Nebraska Academic / other
Locations1 site (Omaha, Nebraska)
Trial IDNCT03192267 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to characterize the prevalence and classification of lung disease in individuals with newly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Participants will undergo pulmonary function tests, high-resolution chest CT scans, and complete questionnaires to gather comprehensive data. The study also seeks to identify novel biomarkers, such as anti-malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde (MAA) antibodies, to predict lung disease in RA patients. By developing a cohort of newly diagnosed RA patients, the study intends to facilitate long-term follow-up through electronic medical records and biobanking.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 19-90 who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis within the past two years.

Not a fit: Patients with inflammatory arthritis that does not meet the ACR criteria for rheumatoid arthritis or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection and management of lung disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the study focuses on a specific aspect of RA, similar studies have shown success in identifying extra-articular manifestations in rheumatoid arthritis, indicating potential for valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 19-90 years of age
* Able to give informed consent
* Diagnosis of RA by a Rheumatologist using 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria within the past 2 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inflammatory arthritis that does not meet 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
* Pregnant

Where this trial is running

Omaha, Nebraska

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Rheumatoid Arthritisnewly diagnosed rheumatoid arthritislung disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.