Skin Autofluorescence and Advanced Glycation Endproducts in Systemic Sclerosis
Author Information
Author(s): M. E. Hettema, H. Bootsma, R. Graaff, R. de Vries, C. G. M. Kallenberg, A. J. Smit
Primary Institution: University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen
Hypothesis
Is advanced glycation endproduct accumulation increased in patients with systemic sclerosis compared to healthy controls?
Conclusion
Skin AGEs are not increased in patients with systemic sclerosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Skin autofluorescence did not differ significantly between SSc patients and controls.
- CRP levels were significantly higher in SSc patients compared to controls.
- Age and use of ACE inhibitors were independently associated with skin autofluorescence.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether a substance in the skin that can indicate stress and damage is higher in people with a disease called systemic sclerosis, but it found that it isn't.
Methodology
Skin autofluorescence was measured in 41 SSc patients and 41 matched controls using UV-A light excitation-emission matrices.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the use of medications that may affect AGE accumulation.
Limitations
The study only included patients with limited cutaneous SSc and may not reflect findings in other forms of the disease.
Participant Demographics
41 patients with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis and 41 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.684
Statistical Significance
p=0.684
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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