Endostatin as a Biomarker for Systemic Sclerosis
Author Information
Author(s): Mangoni Arduino A., Zinellu Angelo
Primary Institution: Flinders University, Australia
Hypothesis
Can endostatin serve as a reliable biomarker for systemic sclerosis and its complications?
Conclusion
Endostatin levels are significantly higher in systemic sclerosis patients, particularly those with digital ulcers and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Supporting Evidence
- Endostatin concentrations were significantly higher in systemic sclerosis patients than in healthy controls.
- Endostatin levels were also higher in patients with digital ulcers and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
- No significant differences were found between patients with limited vs. diffuse disease.
Takeaway
This study found that a protein called endostatin is higher in people with a disease called systemic sclerosis, especially if they have certain complications.
Methodology
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies comparing endostatin levels in systemic sclerosis patients and healthy controls.
Potential Biases
Low to moderate risk of bias in the included studies.
Limitations
Limited number of studies on endostatin in specific complications like interstitial lung disease and gastrointestinal manifestations.
Participant Demographics
914 systemic sclerosis patients (mean age 52 years, 86% females) and 442 healthy controls (mean age 49 years, 76% females).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.56 to 1.23
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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