TY - JOUR T1 - Why is a paediatric respiratory specialist integral to the paediatric rheumatology clinic? JF - Breathe JO - Breathe DO - 10.1183/20734735.0212-2020 VL - 16 IS - 4 SP - 200212 AU - Manisha Ramphul AU - Kathy Gallagher AU - Kishore Warrier AU - Sumit Jagani AU - Jayesh Mahendra Bhatt Y1 - 2020/12/01 UR - http://breathe.ersjournals.com/content/16/4/200212.abstract N2 - Systemic connective tissue diseases (CTDs) are characterised by the presence of autoantibodies and multiorgan involvement. Although CTDs are rare in children, they are associated with pulmonary complications, which have a high morbidity and mortality rate. The exact pathophysiology remains unclear. The pleuropulmonary complications in CTD are diverse in their manifestations and are often complex to diagnose and manage.The most common CTDs are discussed. These include juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile dermatomyositis, juvenile systemic sclerosis, Sjögren's syndrome and mixed connective tissue disease. We describe the clinical features of the pleuropulmonary complications, focusing on their screening, diagnosis and monitoring. Treatment strategies are also discussed, highlighting the factors and interventions that influence the outcome of lung disease in CTD and pulmonary complications of treatment.Early detection and prompt treatment in a multidisciplinary team setting, including respiratory and rheumatology paediatricians and radiologists, is paramount in achieving the best possible outcomes for these patients.Pleuropulmonary complications of CTD, though rare in paediatrics, can be associated with high morbidity and mortality. Joint management by respiratory and rheumatology paediatricians is recommended. Treatment includes steroids and other immunomodulators. https://bit.ly/2MCvEpp ER -