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Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
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The prevalence of infectious agents in patients with systemic sclerosis

Hüseyin Bilgin, Hilal Kocabaş, Recep Keşli

    Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences
    |January 19, 2016
    PubMed
    Abstract

    Insights

    Systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients show higher rates of certain infections, including Helicobacter pylori, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and parvovirus B19, compared to healthy individuals. These findings suggest infections may play a role in SSc development.

    Area of Science:

    • Immunology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Rheumatology

    Background:

    • Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder with microvascular injury, fibrosis, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition.
    • Bacterial and viral infections are suspected contributors to SSc pathogenesis.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the association between SSc and infections by common bacterial and viral agents.
    • To compare the prevalence of specific infections in SSc patients versus healthy controls.

    Main Methods:

    • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect IgM and IgG antibodies against Helicobacter pylori, cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and parvovirus B19.
    • Sera from 30 SSc patients and 30 healthy controls were analyzed for seropositivity to these agents.

    Main Results:

    • Prevalence of H. pylori, CMV, EBV, and parvovirus B19 infections was significantly higher in SSc patients compared to the control group.
    • Seropositivity indicated a greater history or presence of these infections in individuals with systemic sclerosis.

    Conclusions:

    • Systemic sclerosis is linked to an increased prevalence of certain bacterial and viral infections.
    • Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of these infections in the etiology and pathogenesis of SSc.

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