Evaluating Gut Imaging and Stool Biomarkers in Patients With Scleroderma-associated Gastrointestinal Disease

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Aim 1 Determine if FDG-PET-MRI imaging biomarkers differentiate patients with VEDOSS/ early SSc (predominantly inflammatory) from those with late SSc (predominantly fibrosis). Stool markers will be used as secondary biomarkers supporting inflammation. Study design: cross-sectional; The investigators...

Aim 1 Determine if FDG-PET-MRI imaging biomarkers differentiate patients with VEDOSS/ early SSc (predominantly inflammatory) from those with late SSc (predominantly fibrosis). Stool markers will be used as secondary biomarkers supporting inflammation. Study design: cross-sectional; The investigators will compare biomarkers between patients with VEDOSS/early SSc and those with late SSc not on immunosuppressive treatment. Aim 2 Evaluate FDG-PET-MRI imaging biomarker change over a 6- and 12-month treatment period with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in patients with early SSc. Stool markers will be used as secondary biomarkers supporting inflammation. Study design: longitudinal; In early SSc patients, the investigators will determine change in biomarker levels from pre-treatment baseline to 6 months (primary end-point) and 12-months (secondary end-point) following MMF treatment. Exploratory Aim: In patients with VEDOSS/early SSc not on immunosuppressive treatment, the investigators will characterize imaging and stool biomarker changes over one year.

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