CARDIOVASCULAR RISK ASSESSMENT IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS

Abstract

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by widespread fibrosis, immune dysregulation, and vascular damage. Cardiovascular involvement represents one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with SSc. Importantly, cardiovascular complications may develop at an early stage and remain clinically silent for a long time. Therefore, early identification of high-risk patients is essential for improving long-term outcomes.