Macro- and microvascular disease in systemic sclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Vascular Medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• Connective tissue diseases frequently involve vasculopathy, impacting disease pathogenesis.
• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder causing organ fibrosis and significant vascular disease.
• Both micro- and macro-vessels are primary targets in SSc.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical manifestations of vasculopathy in SSc patients.
• To discuss the pathophysiology of vascular disorders in systemic sclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical manifestations.
• Review of pathophysiological mechanisms of vascular damage.

Main Results:

• Vasculopathy presents diverse clinical symptoms in SSc patients.
• Pathophysiology involves direct targeting of blood vessels in SSc.
• Fibrosis and autoimmune processes contribute to vascular complications.

Conclusions:

• Vasculopathy is a key feature of systemic sclerosis, affecting various vessel types.
• Understanding SSc-related vasculopathy is crucial for patient management.
• Further research into pathophysiology can guide therapeutic strategies.