Cardiac disease in systemic sclerosis: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune dysregulation, microvascular damage, and fibrosis.
• Cardiovascular involvement is a frequent complication, progressing from endothelial dysfunction to impaired cardiac function.
• Cardiac manifestations affect 15-35% of SSc patients, contributing significantly to mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardiovascular manifestations of Systemic Sclerosis.
• To highlight risk factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies for SSc-related cardiac disease.
• To emphasize the importance of early detection and comprehensive management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on cardiovascular involvement in Systemic Sclerosis.
• Analysis of common cardiac manifestations, risk factors, and diagnostic tools.
• Summary of current treatment modalities and management approaches.

Main Results:

• Cardiovascular complications, including myocardial fibrosis and heart failure, are prevalent in SSc.
• Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a major cause of morbidity and mortality.
• Subclinical cardiac dysfunction is common and often underdiagnosed.
• High-risk factors for cardiovascular involvement include male gender, older age of onset, and African American ethnicity.

Conclusions:

• Early recognition and diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction in SSc are essential.
• Multidisciplinary management involving cardiologists and rheumatologists is critical.
• Comprehensive treatment strategies improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality.