ESM1 and systemic lupus erythematosus: Higher endocan levels are observed in patients with SLE compared to controls. A positive correlation between endocan levels and cIMT, suggesting endocan's role in subclinical atherosclerosis.Endocan may serve as a biomarker for predicting subclinical atherosclerosis in SLE patients. hsCRP is best biomarker for predicting CVD.