5th June 2025

A 65-year-old patient with systemic sclerosis presents to A&E with new-onset shortness of breath.

A 65-year-old patient with systemic sclerosis presents to A&E with new-onset shortness of breath. A set of bloods shows normal inflammatory markers and a raised d-dimer. CTPA is negative, but shows some bibasal lung changes in keeping with fibrosis. 

What is the most common cause of death in systemic sclerosis? 

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.