Effects of bosentan on nondigital ulcers in patients with systemic sclerosis

T Taniguchi1, Y Asano, M Hatano

  • 1Departments of Dermatology and Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan.

Abstract

Insights

Bosentan effectively treats severe cyanotic nondigital ulcers in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. This dual endothelin receptor antagonist shows promise for ulcers caused by poor circulation.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Medicine
  • Dermatology
  • Rheumatology

Background:

  • Systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients often develop digital and nondigital ulcers.
  • Bosentan, a dual endothelin receptor antagonist, is approved for preventing digital ulcers in SSc.
  • Efficacy of bosentan for SSc-related nondigital ulcers is not well-established.

Observation:

  • This study investigated bosentan's efficacy in five SSc patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and refractory nondigital ulcers.
  • Ulcer characteristics, particularly cyanosis, were analyzed in relation to treatment response.

Findings:

  • Bosentan significantly improved nondigital ulcers associated with severe cyanosis.
  • Ulcers without severe cyanosis showed limited response to bosentan therapy.

Implications:

  • Bosentan may accelerate healing of nondigital ulcers in SSc patients with severe cyanosis.
  • This suggests that impaired peripheral circulation is a key factor in ulcer responsiveness to bosentan.

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