Detecting heart problems early in patients with systemic sclerosis

Early Detection of Right Ventricular Dysfunction and Emerging Pulmonary Hypertension in Systemic Sclerosis

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11015054

This study is looking for better ways to spot pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) early in people with systemic sclerosis (SSc) by using new imaging techniques and smart computer tools, so that doctors can help patients sooner and improve their health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11015054 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the early detection of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), an autoimmune disease. It aims to develop noninvasive imaging techniques and advanced machine-learning algorithms to identify patients at high risk for PAH before it becomes severe. By analyzing heart function through echocardiography, the study seeks to provide better prognostic markers that can guide timely interventions. The goal is to enhance patient outcomes by diagnosing and treating PAH earlier in the disease process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who may be at risk for developing pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients without systemic sclerosis or those who do not exhibit risk factors for pulmonary arterial hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment options for patients with systemic sclerosis, potentially reducing mortality rates associated with pulmonary hypertension.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging and machine-learning techniques for early detection of similar conditions, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder, autoimmunity disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.