Can rheumatoid arthritis cause lung nodules or lung cancer?
Yes, rheumatoid arthritis can cause lung nodules, but it does not directly cause lung cancer, though there is an increased risk.
Lung Nodules:
RA can lead to pulmonary nodules forming in the lungs due to scarring within the lung tissue. These nodules may appear Show Full Answer
Can rheumatoid arthritis cause lung nodules or lung cancer?
Yes, rheumatoid arthritis can cause lung nodules, but it does not directly cause lung cancer, though there is an increased risk.
Lung Nodules:
RA can lead to pulmonary nodules forming in the lungs due to scarring within the lung tissue. These nodules may appear similar to lung cancer on X-rays and CT scans, but they are not cancerous. However, if a nodule ruptures, it can sometimes cause a collapsed lung and breathing difficulties.
Lung Cancer Risk:
People with RA have a higher likelihood of developing lung cancer compared to the general population. This increased risk may be related to:
- The altered immune system function in RA
- RA medications that suppress the immune system, potentially limiting the body's ability to fight cancer
- Higher disease activity and aggressive treatment
It's important to note that smoking significantly increases both RA lung complications and cancer risk, so quitting smoking is strongly recommended.
If you're experiencing any new respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath, persistent cough, or chest pain, discuss them with your rheumatologist for proper evaluation.
December 15, 2025
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