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Raynaud, digital ulcers and calcinosis in scleroderma.
1Specialist in rheumatology, Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Alemán; Consultorio de Raynaud, Esclerodermia e Hipertensión Arterial Pulmonar, Sanatorio San José, Ciudad Autónomade Buenos Aires, Argentina. alejandro.nitsche@gmail.com
Systemic sclerosis frequently causes Raynaud phenomenon, digital ulcers, and calcinosis. Prompt, intensive treatment for scleroderma patients with Raynaud's phenomenon can prevent digital ulcers and tissue loss.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) commonly presents with Raynaud phenomenon, digital ulcers, and calcinosis.
- Digital ulcers affect over 50% of patients with scleroderma, leading to significant morbidity.
- Delayed treatment of digital ulcers in SSc can result in hospitalizations, ischemia, and functional impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and consequences of digital ulcers in systemic sclerosis.
- To emphasize the importance of timely and aggressive treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon in SSc patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical manifestations in systemic sclerosis patients.
- Analysis of factors contributing to digital ulcer development and progression.
- Evaluation of treatment strategies for refractory Raynaud's phenomenon.
Main Results:
- Raynaud phenomenon, digital ulcers, and calcinosis are hallmark SSc manifestations.
- Digital ulcers are highly prevalent and associated with severe complications.
- Early, intensive treatment escalation is crucial for prevention.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive management of Raynaud's phenomenon in scleroderma is essential.
- Prompt treatment can prevent digital ulcers and mitigate severe outcomes.
- Interdisciplinary care is vital for managing SSc complications.
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