Abstract
The term biomarker is commonly found in the medical literature but is often applied loosely. The NIH Biomarkers Definitions Working Group defines a biomarker as "A characteristic that is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes or pharmacologic responses to a therapeutic intervention" [1]. An ideal biomarker reflects a biologic process (normal or pathogenic), predicts clinical events in the absence of treatment, and is easy to obtain. For biomarkers to predict future outcomes, the biomarker requires validation in longitudinal cohort studies. In scleroderma, vascular biomarkers could be used in several different ways (Table 20.1). They may aid identifying patients with high risk for future vascular complications. They may help define patients as early responders or nonresponders to vascular therapies. Importantly, they may also be utilized as a probe to understand the pathobiology of the vascular insult. Ideally one biomarker may fulfill all of these roles at least in regard to a specific vascular complication such as PH.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Scleroderma |
Subtitle of host publication | From Pathogenesis to Comprehensive Management |
Publisher | Springer US |
Pages | 247-253 |
Number of pages | 7 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781441957740 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781441957733 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1 2012 |
Keywords
- Adhesion molecule
- Biomarkers as predictors
- Endothelial cell
- Endothelin
- Platelets
- Potential uses
- Vascular biomarkers
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Medicine