SSc is a complex chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a significant gender disparity, with a much higher incidence in women than in men.731 The progression of the disease primarily involves three core processes: extensive vascular abnormalities, immune system dysregulation, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs.732,733 Decades ago, researchers first discovered high levels of CD163+ macrophages infiltrating SSc.734 Macrophages are situated at a crucial intersection of inflammation and fibrosis in SSc, playing an indispensable role. The gene discussed is CD163; the disease is systemic sclerosis.