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Updated: Sep 11, 2025

Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Residence at high altitude as a risk factor for high probability of pulmonary hypertension in patients with systemic
Luis Javier Cajas1, Julia Recalde Reyes2, Javier Alejandro Correa2
1Especialidad en Reumatología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; Departamento de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; Asociación Colombiana de Reumatología (ASOREUMA), Bogotá, Colombia.
Introduction:
This study investigated the association between high-altitude residence (>2500m above sea level) and the presence of high probability of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).
Methods:
A retrospective case-control study was conducted with 368 patients diagnosed with SSc at the rheumatology outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of high probability of PH. Clinical, demographic, and high-altitude residence data were collected and analyzed. A multiple logistic regression model was used to control confounding variables.
Results:
Patients residing at high altitudes had a significantly greater risk of presenting high probability of PH than those living at lower altitudes did (odds ratio: 2.0). Other significant factors included the diffuse cutaneous subtype of SSc and the presence of interstitial lung disease.
Discussion:
High-altitude residence is a potential risk factor for presenting high probability of PH in SSc patients, warranting closer monitoring and tailored management in these populations. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
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