Comprehensive investigation of novel serum markers of pulmonary fibrosis associated with systemic sclerosis and dermato/polymyositis.

Abstract

KL-6, SP-D, vWF and ES are good surrogate factors of pulmonary fibrosis but can not replace conventional diagnostic procedures. However, these markers are suitable for the assessment of progression and severity of pulmonary fibrosis in systemic autoimmune disorders once the diagnosis is established.