Evaluation of Pulmonary Functions and Aerobic Capacity in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Objective: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are chronic inflammatory diseases that mainly involve the musculoskeletal system but also affect the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. In this study, we aimed to compare pulmonary functions and aerobic capacities of healthy controls with AS and RA patients, and to investigate the effects of disease-specific evaluation parameters and quality of life on pulmonary functions and aerobic capacity. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 87 participants including AS (n=36), RA patients (n=27) and healthy controls (n=24). Patients were evaluated for disease activity, functional status and quality of life. In addition, 6-minute walking test (6-MWT), exercise tolerance test and ergospirometric procedure were performed to determine exercise tolerance and functional capacities of patients and healthy controls. Results: Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), peak oxygen