Early Lung Function Decline Predicts Mortality in Systemic Sclerosis-ILD
4 Jun 2025 • Early lung function decline strongly predicts mortality in sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD), as per a cohort study.
Key Findings:
- A drop of >10% in predicted forced vital capacity (FVC) within 12 months was linked to a nearly fourfold increase in mortality risk (HR 3.81).
- Composite markers also proved predictive: a >10% FVC decline or worsening skin fibrosis (mRSS) yielded an HR of 2.82, while FVC decline ≥10% or 5–9% coupled with ≥15% diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide drop was associated with an HR of 3.42.
Findings underscore the critical need for close first-year monitoring of FVC/skin fibrosis and targeting these parameters in treatment strategies.
Source: Oxford Academic | Read Full Story