STUDY OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC CHANGES IN THE CAROTID ARTERIES IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC SCLERODERMA

Autoimmune diseases, including systemic sclerosis (SSc), are associated with various complications, with vascular issues being among the most significant contributors to morbidity and mortality. One of the leading causes of mortality in patients with autoimmune diseases, particularly in systemic sclerosis, is the development of vascular complications [2]. These complications are primarily driven by the early onset and rapid progression of atherosclerotic lesions in the vascular system.