P.068 Endothelial Function and Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Sclerodermia

In 40 patients (36 females, mean age 56±13 years) with capillaroscopic pattern of sclerodermia (SSc) and 30 matched healthy subjects (27 females), we assessed endothelium-dependent (flow-mediated dilation, FMD), and -independent vasodilation (sublingual administration of glycerol trinitrate, GTN, 25 µg), by ultrasounds and computerized analysis. Augmentation index (AIx) and brachial pulse wave velocity (PWV) were assessed by applanation tonometry (Sphygmocor®). Disease activity and severity scores and inflammatory parameters (erythrocyte sedimentation rate, ESR; C reactive protein, CRP; interleukin-6, IL-6) were evaluated. FMD was significantly (p <0.001) lower in SSc (4.3±2.3