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World J Cardiol. Sep 26, 2014; 6(9): 993-1005
Published online Sep 26, 2014. doi: 10.4330/wjc.v6.i9.993
Published online Sep 26, 2014. doi: 10.4330/wjc.v6.i9.993
Cardiac manifestations in systemic sclerosis
Sevdalina Lambova, Department of Propedeutics in Internal Medicine, Medical University, Plovdiv 4002, Bulgaria
Author contributions: Lambova S performed the review and analysis, and wrote the paper.
Correspondence to: Sevdalina Lambova, MD, PhD, Department of Propedeutics in Internal Medicine, Medical University, 15A Vasil Aprilov Blvd, Plovdiv 4002, Bulgaria. sevdalina_n@abv.bg
Telephone: +359-602411 Fax: +359-602273
Received: December 29, 2013
Revised: July 4, 2014
Accepted: July 15, 2014
Published online: September 26, 2014
Revised: July 4, 2014
Accepted: July 15, 2014
Published online: September 26, 2014
Core Tip
Core tip: The prevalence of primary cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is difficult to determine, as it can manifest as myocardial damage, fibrosis of the conduction system, pericardial and valvular disease. When clinically manifested, cardiac involvement is thought to be an important prognostic factor. Echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are sensitive techniques for earlier detection of structural and functional SSc-related cardiac pathologies. Screening for subclinical cardiac involvement provides an opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment, which is of crucial importance for a positive outcome.