The Evolving Field of Cardio-Rheumatology: Global Patterns and Research Gaps, 1953-2025.

Cardio-rheumatology, a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases, remains intellectually fragmented despite increasing clinical and research interest driven by the rising burden of cardiovascular complications in rheumatic conditions. This was a bibliometric analysis of 3,709 articles from 1953 to March 2025, identified via Scopus databases, that assessed publication trends, citation metrics, authorship patterns, and global contributions, revealing a sharp rise in output post 2010, with the United States leading in both volume and impact. However, international collaboration was limited (11.6% multi-country authorship), and productivity was concentrated among a few contributors. Dominant themes included myocarditis, pericarditis, and accelerated atherosclerosis, while emerging areas such as cardiac sarcoidosis, advanced imaging, and biologic therapy-associated cardiotoxicity are gaining prominence. This analysis outlines the foundational structure of cardio-rheumatology and underscores the need for greater interdisciplinary and international integration to advance the field and improve patient outcomes.