Unraveling the relationship between disordered sleep and systemic sclerosis outcomes

This review aimed to synthesize the current knowledge regarding the prevalence, underlying mechanisms, and clinical implications of sleep disturbances in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Furthermore, it highlights the potential for targeted interventions to address sleep dysfunction and improve overall disease management and patient quality of life.

Sleep disturbances, including poor sleep quality, insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome, are common in patients with SSc, with multiple contributing factors such as immune activation, fibrosis, pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, comprehensive assessment methods and targeted treatments for sleep disorders in this population remain limited. Evidence suggests a close association between sleep disruption and disease severity or progression, with inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6 and TNFα) implicated in sleep and SSc pathophysiology.

Sleep disorders are an under-recognized but significant burden in SSc, driven by complex interactions among disease manifestations and psychological and physiological factors. Early comprehensive assessment and integrated management of sleep disturbances and underlying SSc symptoms may improve patient outcomes.