Gulsara Baimakanova

Gulsara Baimakanova


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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11 February 2026 in Diagnostics
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
MMMarina Makarova
Marina Makarova
GBGulsara Baimakanova
Gulsara Baimakanova
ABAndrey Belevskiy
Andrey Belevskiy
ACAnzhelika Chegodar
Anzhelika Chegodar
Airat BilyalovAirat Bilyalov
Airat Bilyalov
NBNatalia Bodunova
Natalia Bodunova
Background/Objectives: Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare cystic lung disease for which serum vascular endothelial growth factor D (VEGF-D) is a recommended diagnostic biomarker. Data from the Russian Federation remain limited. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of VEGF-D in women with multiple pulmonary cysts and to assess diagnostic thresholds in a Russian cohort. Methods: In a single-center prospective cohort study, 71 women aged 20–74 years with multiple lung cysts on high-resolution computed tomography were enrolled. Serum VEGF-D levels were measured using Quantikine ELISA. Diagnoses were established according to international guidelines. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic performance and identify cut-off values. Results: Of 71 patients, 48 (68%) had definite LAM. VEGF-D levels were higher in LAM than in non-LAM patients (1425 ± 872.1 pg/mL vs. 552 ± 276.5 pg/mL, p < 0.0001). The area under the curve was 0.866 (95% CI 0.783–0.950). A cohort-derived threshold of 738 pg/mL yielded 81% sensitivity and 79% specificity. VEGF-D levels of 800 pg/mL or higher were observed in 75% of LAM cases. Conclusions: Serum VEGF-D demonstrates high diagnostic value for LAM in women with multiple pulmonary cysts in the Russian Federation. The findings support implementation of VEGF-D testing in routine practice and are consistent with use of the internationally recommended 800 pg/mL threshold for noninvasive confirmation in most patients.