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Objective: Endothelial dysfunction and vasculopathy are crucial pathogenic factors in systemic sclerosis. Increased concentrations of plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) may also contribute to endothelial dysfunction in patients with systemic sclerosis. We evaluated the relationship between ADMA and aortic elastic properties in patients with systemic sclerosis. Material and Method: Plasma ADMA levels were measured in 30 patients with systemic sclerosis (28 females, mean age 40.7±11.6) and 30 healthy subjects (27 females, mean age 40.6±13). Aortic stiffness was determined with echocardiography. Results: In patients with systemic sclerosis, the mean value of ADMA was 0.53±0.13µmol/l compared with 0.46±0.15 µmol/l for control group. Systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and aortic 'strain were found to be higher in patients with systemic sclerosis (p=0.027, p=0.048, p=0.037, respectively), diyastolic blood pressure and aortic distensibility was found lower in systemic sclerosis (p=0.039, p=0.045, respectively). There was no significant correlations between ADMA and aortic 'strain'. Conclusion: ADMA serum levels were increased in patients with systemic sclerosis, but no significant correlation was found between ADMA and aort's elastic structure (aortic 'strain', distensibility, and aortic stiffness index). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]