Systemic Sclerosis: A Clinical Analysis of Foot Findings in 52 Cases

The diagnosis of systemic sclerosis is mostly clinical and is identified by the various cutaneous changes. The cutaneous changes in systemic sclerosis are already well established and supported by a large number of studies and textbooks. Very few literatures describe foot findings in patients with systemic sclerosis. This study was aimed at identifying the various changes in plantar aspect of foot of patients with systemic sclerosis.

All patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis were recruited. Apart from clinical examination, X - ray of both feet was done in all the patients.

A total of 52 patients were recruited in the study period. Most of the patients (86.54%) were females and the mean age at presentation was 34.19 years. A history of Raynaud's phenomenon was present in 47(90.38%) patients. The foot findings were digital pitted scars in 44(84.61%) patients, macular hyperpigmentation in 40(76.92%) patients and corns in weight bearing areas were found in 40 (76.92%) cases.

In our study corn was a common finding in the foot of patients of systemic sclerosis which has not been routinely documented.