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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
04:44
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Ocular findings in patients with systemic sclerosis
Beatriz de A F Gomes1, Marcony R Santhiago, Priscilla Magalhães
1Ophthalmology Department, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
|May 10, 2011
Summary
Ocular manifestations like eyelid changes and dry eye are common in systemic sclerosis (SSc). These findings, along with cataracts and retinal issues, vary based on SSc subtype and patient factors.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis, vascular dysfunction, and immune dysregulation.
- Ocular involvement is a recognized complication of SSc, but its frequency and specific characteristics require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and clinical features of ocular manifestations in a cohort of outpatients with systemic sclerosis.
- To explore associations between ocular findings and demographic, clinical, and serological parameters in SSc patients.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 45 SSc outpatients.
- Collection of demographic data, disease characteristics, and autoantibody profiles.
- Comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, including nailfold capillaroscopy.
Main Results:
- Eyelid skin changes (51.1%) and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (48.9%) were the most frequent ocular findings.
- Cataracts (42.2%), retinal microvascular abnormalities (28.9%), and glaucoma (13.3%) were also observed.
- Eyelid changes correlated with diffuse SSc subtype and younger age at diagnosis; retinal abnormalities were linked to older age and severe capillaroscopy patterns.
Conclusions:
- Eyelid abnormalities and dry eye are highly prevalent in systemic sclerosis.
- Ocular manifestations in SSc exhibit heterogeneity, with specific findings associated with distinct demographic and clinical factors, reflecting diverse underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
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