Understanding the Trial Results
The SENSCIS trial looked at how a drug called nintedanib affects tiny blood vessels in the fingers of patients with a lung disease linked to systemic sclerosis (SSc-ILD). This study specifically focused on changes in nailfold capillaries, which are small blood vessels just under the skin of the fingers.
What Worked?
- For patients at risk of lung function decline, nintedanib helped keep the number of capillaries stable over 52 weeks.
- In patients who experienced lung disease progression, there was a slight increase in capillary density with nintedanib.
What Didn’t Work?
- Overall, there were no significant changes in capillary measurements for either the nintedanib or placebo groups.
- Patients without risk factors for lung function decline showed no changes in capillary density.
How Does This Help Patients and Clinics?
- This study suggests that nintedanib may help some patients maintain better blood vessel health, which could be important for lung function.
- Clinics can use these findings to monitor patients more closely, especially those at risk for lung disease progression.
Real-World Opportunities
- Doctors can consider prescribing nintedanib for patients at risk of rapid lung function decline.
- Clinics can implement regular nailfold capillaroscopy to track changes in capillary health over time.
Measurable Outcomes
- Track the number of capillaries in patients using nailfold capillaroscopy.
- Monitor lung function changes, specifically forced vital capacity (FVC).
AI Tools
- Consider using AI tools for analyzing capillary images to identify changes more efficiently.
- AI can help predict which patients may be at higher risk for lung function decline based on their capillary health.
Step-by-Step Plan for Clinics
- Start by educating staff about the importance of nailfold capillaroscopy.
- Introduce the use of nintedanib for patients identified as at risk.
- Implement regular capillary assessments and lung function tests.
- Gradually expand the program based on patient outcomes and feedback.
For more detailed information on this research, please visit this link.
