Bibliometric Analysis of Capillaroscopy Use in Systemic Sclerosis: Current State and Advances from 2000 to 2024

Systemic sclerosis is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by diverse clinical manifestations that vary among individuals. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the existing literature on the use of capillaroscopy in systemic sclerosis and to perform a bibliometric analysis.

Data were downloaded from Scopus on 2nd October 2024, and analyzed using VOSviewer and the Biblioshiny package programs.

A total of 819 articles from 246 sources were analyzed. Italy led in the number of publications (n=209) and the frequency of international cooperation. The article, titled "Nailfold Videocapillaroscopy Assessment of Microvascular Damage in Systemic Sclerosis," published in The Journal of Rheumatology, has garnered 606 citations, making it the most cited article. Cutolo M. was the most influential author, with 1302 citations and 107 publications, while the University of Genova was the most prolific institution. The investigation identified significant issue clusters in the literature related to keywords, such as "systemic sclerosis," "Raynaud's phenomenon," "capillaroscopy," and "digital ulcers."

This study presents the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis of capillaroscopy use in systemic sclerosis. The findings suggest that scientific interest in the subject is increasing and that research leadership is primarily located in European countries, with Italy at the forefront. The most frequently used keywords in the thematic analysis indicated that capillaroscopy can be used not only for diagnosis but also for monitoring complications. The use of only the Scopus database and the inclusion of only original articles in the study constitute limitations. This methodological choice was made to ensure data integrity.

Understanding the research on capillaroscopy applications in systemic sclerosis can benefit rheumatologists and provide ideas for future investigations. This bibliometric analysis highlights key authors, citation patterns, collaboration structures, and emerging research issues over the past two decades, providing a comprehensive overview of the discipline.