Current Take on Systemic Sclerosis Patients' Vaccination Recommendations.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting multiple organs.
• Patients with SSc have an increased risk of infectious diseases due to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile current evidence on vaccination strategies for patients with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc).
• To provide a resource for preventing and managing infectious diseases in SSc patients.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted to gather up-to-date evidence.
• Data on vaccine safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy were presented for each vaccine type.

Main Results:

• The review covers vaccines for SARS-CoV-2, seasonal influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Hepatitis A virus (HAV), Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Herpes Zoster virus (HZV), Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis.
• Evidence on the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of these vaccines in SSc patients is discussed.

Conclusions:

• Vaccination is crucial for preventing infections in Systemic Sclerosis patients.
• This review serves as a guide for optimal vaccination strategies in this vulnerable population.