Prognostic value of baseline nailfold videocapillaroscopy in predicting pulmonary decline and disease progression in SSc

Baseline NVC abnormalities-particularly capillary disorganization and late pattern morphology-are independent predictors of ILD progression and worsening pulmonary function in SSc over two years in SSc. Elevated KL-6 levels further correlate with NVC abnormalities and pulmonary decline. These findings highlight the potential role of NVC as a non-invasive tool for ILD risk stratification, complementing traditional imaging and biomarker assessments. Early identification of patients at higher risk for ILD progression could enable more intensive monitoring and timely therapeutic interventions, improving long-term outcomes in SSc-ILD.