Vascular endothelial growth factor as a potential biomarker in systemic sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc), a chronic autoimmune condition, is characterized by microvascular dysfunction, ineffective angiogenesis, and fibrosis. The identification of robust biomarkers reflecting these processes may assist in clinical management and lead to the discovery of new therapies. We sought to address this issue by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies investigating one such biomarker, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), in SSc patients and healthy controls and in SSc patients with localized or diffuse disease, different video capillaroscopy patterns (early, active, or late), and presence or absence of complications.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to 15 May 2024. We assessed the risk of

SUBMITTER: Zinellu A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11634811 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature