Bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia (BOOP) is an inflammation of the bronchioles and surrounding tissue in the lungs. BOOP may affect small areas of the lungs or the entire lung. * Bronchiolitis means inflammation of the bronchioles.

* Obliterans refers to the fact that the inflammation of the bronchioles partially obliterates the airways. The pneumonia isn't infectious, but it is due to inflammation of the lung tissue around the inflamed bronchioles. Known causes of BOOP are: * Certain medications * Radiation therapy * Organ and tissue transplantation * Some connective tissue disorders, such as lupus People with BOOP may or may not experience signs and symptoms. However, it can be detected on chest x-rays. If symptoms are present, they usually develop over several weeks and typically include shortness of breath and fever. http://lungdiseases.about.com/od/termsdefinitions/f/what_is_boop.htm

Yes it can affect your lungs. In fact, lt. The most common lung problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis include:

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation of the lining of the lungs (pleurisy). and this can cause sharp pain while breathing.

Fluid May accumulate around the lungs as a result of inflammation of the lining of the lungs. (pleural effusion). This accumulation can cause shortness of breath.