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Published in: Drugs 2/2016

01-02-2016 | Therapy in Practice

Diagnosis and Management of Systemic Sclerosis: A Practical Approach

Authors: Jason J. Lee, Janet E. Pope

Published in: Drugs | Issue 2/2016

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Abstract

Systemic sclerosis is a devastating multisystem rheumatologic condition that is characterized by autoimmunity, tissue fibrosis, obliterative vasculopathy and inflammation. Clinical presentation and course of the condition vary greatly, which complicates both diagnosis and corresponding treatment. In this regard, recent advances in disease understanding, both clinically and biochemically, have led to newer classification criteria for systemic sclerosis that are more inclusive than ever before. Still, significant disease modifying therapies do not yet exist for most patients. Therefore, organ-based management strategies are employed and research has been directed within this paradigm focusing on either the most debilitating symptoms, such as Raynaud’s phenomenon, digital ulcers and cutaneous sclerosis, or life-threatening organ involvement such as interstitial lung disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension. The current trends in systemic sclerosis diagnosis, evidence-based treatment recommendations and potential future directions in systemic sclerosis treatment are discussed.
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Metadata
Title
Diagnosis and Management of Systemic Sclerosis: A Practical Approach
Authors
Jason J. Lee
Janet E. Pope
Publication date
01-02-2016
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Drugs / Issue 2/2016
Print ISSN: 0012-6667
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1950
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-015-0491-x

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