Does regression of skin thickening predict improvement of internal organ involvement and survival in patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis? A EUSTAR analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc) frequently show spontaneous improvement of skin fibrosis. Our aim was to examine whether an improvement in skin fibrosis predicts lower likelihood of visceral organ progression and better survival.

Methods

Patients from the European Scleroderma Trials and Research (EUSTAR) cohort with dcSSc, baseline modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS) ≥7, and valid mRSS at 12±3 months follow up were included. Regression/progression of skin fibrosis was defined as a decrease/increase in mRSS >5 points and ≥25% from baseline to follow up. The outcomes included progression of lung, renal, cardiac and gastrointestinal manifestations using consensus derived definitions and all-cause death. Regressive, stable and progressive patie

SUBMITTER: Wyss A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11526720 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature