G. Szücs¹, S. Szamosi¹, H. Dér², O. Timár², S. Szántó¹, P. Soltész², Z. Szekanecz^1
1Third Dept. of Medicine, Rheumatology Division, ²Third Dept. of Medicine, Cardiovascular Unit, University of Debrecen Medical Center, Debrecen, Hungary

Background: One of the major factors in the pathology of systemic sclerosis (SSc) is functional and structural vasculopathy of not only small but large vessels. Arterial stiffness is an independent predictor of mortality and is regulated by a number of factors, including vascular smooth muscle tone.
Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate arterial stiffness in patients with SSc compared to controls.
Methods: Augmentation index (AIx) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) of brachial artery were measured in 35 SSc patients and 35 age- and sex-matched healthy controls by TensioClinic arteriograph system.
Results: In the SSc patients (age 38-65 years) the AIx was significantly higher compared to controls, 2,346 versus -41,152 (p=0,000005). PWV was similarly higher in SSc than in controls, 9,77 m/s versus 8,005 m/s (p=0,000084). There was a significant, positive linear correlation between AIx and PWV in SSc (r=0.5589, p=0.003).

Conclusion: Increased AIx and PWV of the brachial artery show an increased arterial stiffness in SSc. In healthy subjects there was an inverse correlation between endothelial function and arterial stiffness. So this method is suitable for following of not only endothelial dysfunkcion but impaired other vascular functions what could be the signs of macrovascular diseases in SSc.